Stunned by Theo Epstein's Decision with Red Sox

I was absolutely stunned by Theo Epstein's decision not to accept the Red Sox's offer of $4.5 million over 3 years to continue as their general manager. He did an absolutely incredible job in his previous 3 years, and I have heard it said several times that this was considered his dream job. Why would he walk away? He has denied it had anything to do with a conflict with Larry Luchino, as was rumored. He said he just could no longer put his heart and soul into the job. I just can't imagine that could be all there is to the story.

I'm sure the hours are horrible, it is probably a 24-7 job. But come on. It's the Boston Red Sox. And he was in charge. He made all the decisions. It's every true diehard Red Sox fan's dream job. All of us who play fantasy baseball, or online or computer baseball games, its what we dream of doing. How could anyone who is that much a fan of the game of baseball, in particular the Boston Red Sox, walk away from their dream?

I'm also worried that the timing on this is horrible. The Sox have free agents to try to re-sign. Spots to fill, both on tthe field and in the coaching ranks. The timing could not be worse. And the Sox's assistant GM was just signed by another team. This has me worried. They need to find someone fast, for a position that they should not rush trying to fill. With this dilemna, I'd say the only choice is to get an experienced interim general manager. One with experience, but who might or might not be interested in the position beyond temporary. They need someone with a lot of experience to come on board fast, knowing it might be temporary, but knowing there is a lot of work to do in the weeks ahead.

Maybe Theo would available?