Red Sox Fire Team Manager Bobby Valentine

According to a statement released this afternoon by the Boston Red Sox, a replacement is being sought for team manager Bobby Valentine:

The statement, made by Executive Vice-President/General Manager Ben Cherington, follows:

“Our 2012 season was disappointing for many reasons. No single issue is the reason, and no single individual is to blame. We’ve been making personnel changes since August, and we will continue to do so as we build a contending club. With an historic number of injuries, Bobby was dealt a difficult hand. He did the best he could under seriously adverse circumstances, and I am thankful to him.”

You can read more at the Red Sox Official Website, here.

ESPN reported the following statement from Red Sox CEO Larry Lucchino:

“This year’s won-loss record reflects a season of agony,” said Red Sox President/CEO Larry Lucchino. “It begs for changes, some of which have already transpired. More will come. We are determined to fix that which is broken and return the Red Sox to the level of success we have experienced over the past decade.

“Difficult as it is to judge a manager amid a season that had an epidemic of injuries, we feel we need to make changes. Bobby leaves the Red Sox’ manager’s office with our respect, gratitude, and affection. I have no doubt that he will continue to contribute to the game he loves so much and knows so well.”

Good call? Who should the BoSox hire to replace Valentine?