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Boston Red Sox CEO Larry Lucchino stepping down after 2015 season

By Sean Penney

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The balance of power in the Boston Red Sox front office is about to shift, as Larry Lucchino has announced that he will be stepping down as president and CEO at the end of the season, according to a report from the Boston Herald.

There have been signs that changes were on the horizon since back in February, when Luchhino talked about scaling back his responsibilities. With his contract set to expire at the end of the 2015 season, the club decided that it was the right time for Luchhino to relinquish his everyday role.

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Luchhino cited the fact that he will turn 70 years old next month as one of the primary reasons why he is ready to step back. He has been a significant presence in the organization since the current ownership group took over in 2002, following his years of experience as an executive with the San Diego Padres and Baltimore Orioles.

Sam Kennedy, currently the executive vice president and chief operation officer of the Red Sox, will replace Lucchino as president. His responsibilities will not include being involved in baseball operations, with the CEO position remaining vacant for now.

Kennedy has been reporting to Lucchino, overseeing the team’s business operations, including corporate sponsorship, broadcasting, ticketing and marketing. He will begin to transition into his new role over the course of the remaining season and formally assume his new duties at the end of October.

"“The truth is Sam is an important part of this puzzle,” said Lucchino. “He’s been working for me for 20 years, right out of college. He’s certainly my choice, as well as that of John and Tom, to be promoted to the position of president.”"

Lucchino has long been a powerful voice in the front office with a strong influence over the direction of the franchise. His departure will leave a significant void to be filled, but also allow for fresh young executives to be given the chance to step up. As Kennedy moves up the chain it will make room for others to be promoted as well, which will allow the club to retain their top young leaders, while limiting the risk that other organizations may swoop in and lure them away.

The Red Sox and Lucchino are still working out the terms of his departure, but the club hopes that he will remain involved with the organization in some capacity. While he will no longer be able to contribute in an everyday capacity, he can still remain a valuable part of the franchise.

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