The Padres are reportedly close to hiring Jed Hoyer of the Boston Red Sox as their next general manager.
Citing major league sources, ESPN.com reported Wednesday that the Padres are zeroing in on Hoyer, an assistant GM for the Red Sox. An industry source told the North County Times that Hoyer is the leading candidate, but that no hiring is imminent.
Padres CEO Jeff Moorad said by phone Tuesday that he was nearing a decision on who will replace Kevin Towers, who was fired Oct. 3 after 14 seasons. Moorad's assistant said he'll be out of town on business until Friday, which would be the earliest a news conference could be held.
"I'm doing some phone follow-ups and close to making a decision," said Moorad, who wants to fill the position before the start of the World Series on Oct. 28.
