Suggestion box opened on behalf of Red Sox  —  The Red Sox didn't have to be first in naming a new manager, but the fact that they will be last has to be distracting in terms of trying to set their team for 2012.  —  It's not that they haven't done their due diligence in contacting free agents and other teams regarding deals.

Source: Red Sox yet to make offer to Valentine  —  The Boston Red Sox have yet to make an offer to presumed managerial front-runner Bobby Valentine, according to an industry source.  —  The 61-year-old Valentine, an ESPN baseball analyst, had a formal interview with general manager Ben Cherington …

Red Sox search down to Valentine, Lamont  —  Club expected to name new manager within next few days  —  BOSTON — Barring a major surprise, either Bobby Valentine or Gene Lamont will be named Terry Francona's successor at a press conference sometime within the next few days.

Rays acquire righty Lueke from Mariners  —  Dealing Jaso opens room for expected signing of J. Molina  —  ST. PETERSBURG — The Rays announced Sunday night that they had acquired right-handed pitcher Josh Lueke and a player to be named or cash considerations from the Mariners in exchange for catcher John Jaso.

Sources: Major changes coming for Astros  —  The Astros are expected to announce major changes Monday, including the dismissal of general manager Ed Wade, according to major league sources.  —  Tal Smith, the team's president of baseball operations, also is expected to leave his current position, possibly by retiring, sources say.