Francona talks to Cleveland about manager’s job

A year away from managing has been enough for Terry Francona, who craves a chance to get back on the field and back inside a major league clubhouse.

The Cleveland Indians just might put him there.

The former Phillies and Red Sox manager, who has spent the past season working as a TV broadcaster, interviewed Friday to be the Indians’ next manager. Francona spent most of the day in meetings with Indians owner Paul Dolan, general manager Chris Antonetti and other members of Cleveland’s front office.

Francona’s interview came one day after the Indians met with Sandy Alomar Jr. about their managerial opening. If Francona is hired, it’s possible Alomar could stay on as one of his coaches. But Alomar could also be a candidate for Boston’s opening. He previously interviewed with the Red Sox, who fired Bobby Valentine on Thursday.

Red Sox favor Farrell

The Red Sox would like fewer surprises and more stability from their next manager.

Since Bobby Valentine has been fired as Boston’s manager, Toronto Blue Jays skipper John Farrell has emerged as the leading candidate to take over. But he has a year left on his contract and the Red Sox would have to discuss compensation with the Blue Jays to make him available.

Farrell served as Boston’s pitching coach for four years under Terry Francona where he learned an important lesson: Think of the players first in making managerial decisions. If you do that, he said, “You probably are guided in the right direction to do the right thing.”

Clearing the bases

Dodgers slugger Matt Kemp had surgery on his left shoulder and should be ready for opening day. … Chris Iannetta and the Angels agreed to a $15.55 million, three-year contract, a deal that keeps the catcher from becoming a free agent.