Epstein finally signs deal with Red Sox

BOSTON --Boston Red Sox general manager Theo Epstein is finally working under a signed agreement, a year after his negotiations with longtime mentor Larry Lucchino escalated into a public feud.

Epstein and Lucchino, the Red Sox president, confirmed Tuesday that the Red Sox general manager has signed a document that "memorialized the agreement."

The only general manager ever to build a World Series winner in Boston, Epstein walked away from the ballclub last Halloween when his contract expired, leaving a three-year, $4.5 million extension on the table. Although neither man has confirmed exactly what happened or what changed, the disagreement apparently centered on differing philosophies about player development and public relations.

Epstein returned to work in January, but well into the baseball season had not signed a new contract.

The Red Sox brass confirmed the development on Tuesday during a meeting with baseball writers to discuss logistical issues for the coming season.