Theo Epstein Expected to Leave Red Sox for Cubs

In his first job as a general manager, Theo Epstein helped construct the Boston Red Sox team that ended decades of misery by winning a World Series title in 2004. Now, Epstein is closing in on a deal to take over the Chicago Cubs, a franchise with an even more enduring legacy of dismay.

Epstein is close to completing his transition from the Red Sox to the Cubs, according to a Red Sox official who was granted a request for anonymity because the move had not been announced. Another Red Sox official said that Epstein had not informed his staff of a move, but that the front office widely expected him to leave.

Multiple reports have said Epstein has a five-year agreement in place with the Cubs, with an average annual value from $3 million to $4 million. Because Epstein was signed with the Red Sox through 2012, the teams must agree on how the Cubs would compensate the Red Sox.

Epstein’s deal would probably make him the highest-paid general manager in baseball, although his official title with the Cubs could include president. Epstein’s assistant, Ben Cherington, is the strong favorite to take over as Red Sox general manager.

Epstein, 37, would be leaving the Red Sox at a precarious point. The team is coming off one of the worst collapses in major league history, losing the American League wild-card spot despite leading Tampa Bay by nine games on Sept. 2. That failure resulted in the departure of Manager Terry Francona, who resigned on Sept. 30, citing, in part, a lack of support from ownership.

surs text: http://www.nytimes.com/2011/10/13/sports/baseball/Theo-Epstein-Red-Sox-Cubs-General-Manager.html

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