One of the most interesting topics discussed during Theo Epstein's introductory press conference was his close relationship with former Red Sox manager Terry Francona. The relationship was so close that Epstein even admitted that he may still be in Boston if Francona was still the manager. According to WEEI, while it may have been awkward to return to the Red Sox with only one year left on his contract, Epstein revealed that he probably would have stayed had Francona returned for another season:
Epstein said that the decision to cut ties with manager Terry Francona after the season played a significant role in his decision to accept the job with the Cubs. He suggested that a managerial search led by him, entering his final year as Red Sox GM, would have been "awkward at best, disastrous at worst," and acknowledged that had Francona returned to the Sox for a ninth season, he "probably" would have remained with the Sox to conclude his contract.
This quote will likely further speculation that Francona could eventually join his good friend in Chicago. Be sure to stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago and Bleed Cubbie Blue for the latest news and information.