Morgan Out; Hobson Is Red Sox Manager

The Boston Red Sox, despite a strong second-half drive, fired Joe Morgan and named former third baseman Butch Hobson as their new manager.

“Butch is highly thought of throughout baseball and we just felt that he’s the man for us,” Red Sox General Manager Lou Gorman said. “Everyone looks for scapegoats, but we’re not blaming Joe Morgan for not winning.”

Morgan led Boston to AL East titles in 1988 and 1990. This season, the Red Sox dropped 11 1/2 games out on Aug. 7, then closed within half a game of Toronto on Sept. 21. But Boston lost 11 of its last 14 and finished in a tie for second with Detroit.

Morgan has one year remaining on his contract at about $375,000 and was offered a job as special assistant for major league scouting. He said he went to Fenway Park to discuss the future of his five coaches and instead was told he was fired.

Hobson, who signed a two-year contract, was chosen triple-A manager of the year after leading Pawtucket to a 79-64 record and the International League East Division title.

Hobson, 40, played for Boston from 1975-80, then had one season with the Angels and another with the New York Yankees.

“I played for Joe in Pawtucket and got to know him well,” Hobson said of Morgan. “I didn’t see too much of the Red Sox this season, but Joe and I talked often about various players. I certainly hope he’ll be around to give me his input next year. I learned a lot from Joe. I also learned a great deal from other managers I played for. Now I’m hoping to use all I’ve learned.”