Cubs, Sox still apart on compensation for Epstein

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Despite reports that a deal to finalize Theo Epstein joining the Cubs is imminent, a source with knowledge of the ongoing talks said late Thursday afternoon that "nothing" has been agreed upon in compensation talks between the two team, throwing into question the possibility Epstein could be introduced as Chicago's new president of Baseball Operations at a Friday press conference.

Friday is an off day in the World Series and could offer the Cubs a brief window to make such an announcement. Commissioner Bud Selig does not allow teams to announce major news once the World Series begins except on off days, and even then only with his expressed permission.

It's expected the Red Sox will end up with two prospects in exchange for allowing Epstein to leave with a year remaining on his contract. But while the teams have narrowed the focus of the players who could be sent to Boston as compensation, they have yet to agree on one name, much less two.

Multiple reports have Padres general manager Jed Hoyer and his assistant, Jason McLeod -- both former members of the Red Sox' Baseball Ops department --joining Epstein in the Cubs' front office once a deal is agreed upon between Boston and Chicago. Hoyer is expected to be named Cubs' GM. Another Boston Baseball Ops graduate, Josh Byrnes, reportedly will replace Hoyer as GM in San Diego.

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