Cubs ask for permission to talk with Epstein

[Firehawk]

http://espn.go.com/chicago/mlb/story/_/id/7057757/chicago-cubs-ask-boston-red-sox-permission-talk-theo-epstein-report-says

http://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/baseball/cubs/ct-spt-1005-gm-cubs-chicago--20111005,0,1969311.story

The Cubs have asked for permission to interview Red Sox general manager Theo Epstein for a front office position, according to a published report, starting the final chapter of the prolonged search for Jim Hendry's replacement.

When Hendry was let go in August, Epstein seemed like a long shot at best to switch teams. The Red Sox seemingly were coasting to a playoff berth and Epstein already was signed through 2012. But things have changed drastically over the last month, and various reports insist Epstein is interested in the challenge of ending the Cubs' 103-year championship drought, as he did in Boston after an 86-year span between World Series titles.

 

If he were to come to Chicago, it's likely he would bring former Red Sox manager Terry Francona with him.

[Satsuma Illini]

Wow, that would make things really interesting! Imagine one guy ending the two biggest curses in major league baseball.

[Firehawk]

Wow, that would make things really interesting! Imagine one guy ending the two biggest curses in major league baseball.

I think you might get in the hall for that accomplishment   

I like the move, it shows they are being aggressive and looking to really change things...the entire team and surrounding of it need to change...I think going for a guy that went through a similar situation with a team that had not won in 86 years is a good way to go...this is a unique situation unlike any other team in the league, and if you can find a guy that has had a similar experience already and succeeded, I say you go for it. 

[Satsuma Illini]

But if he comes in and fails to get the Cubs that World Series win, then it would be official: The Cubs are cursed for all time! 

[Firehawk]

But if he comes in and fails to get the Cubs that World Series win, then it would be official: The Cubs are cursed for all time! 

ehh gotta do something...gotta try...gotta find a GM and Manager that know what they are up against and can deal with it...and find players that just don't give a crap about all that jibberish about curses and fan pressure...just go out and play, and make their own history. Cubs need leaders, not prima donnas, and not head cases..they have had their fair share of those the last few seasons

[BYS]

I would ask to talk to the guy in Tampa too. He supposedly on their short list.

[Firehawk]

I would ask to talk to the guy in Tampa too. He supposedly on their short list.

supposedly they are going to also...but rumor is that Rickets really wants Epstein...and possibly Francona to come with as the article mentions

could all fall apart fast if Boston denies permission

[BYS]

When you have the payroll Boston has had, you should win as much or more than Epstein has won. Can he build a team through the draft and by acquiring young talent?

[Firehawk]

When you have the payroll Boston has had, you should win as much or more than Epstein has won. Can he build a team through the draft and by acquiring young talent?

where is the idea coming from that Rickets is not going to spend money?  to my knowledge he has given no indication that he is going to be a cheapskate owner yet....i think once they get some of these bad contracts gone, any GM is going to have all the funds they need.

[BYS]

Not cheap, just not Boston type payroll.