Bobby Valentine may have received the dreaded vote of confidence for the rest of this season, but things could change during the offseason, according to the New York Post’s Joel Sherman.

There are rumors that the Red Sox would like to bring back former pitching coach John Farrell to manage the team. Farrell, however, is in his second year as manager of the Blue Jays. Once the season ends, Farrell will still be under control for another season with the Blue Jays. His contract is up after 2013. 

In his two years with the Blue Jays, Farrell’s record is 136-144, good for a .486 winning percentage. The fact that he plays for a division rival makes it extremely unlikely the Blue Jays would allow Farrell to talk to the Red Sox.

If the Red Sox can’t pry Farrell away, Sherman suggests former catcher Jason Varitek could be a strong candidate to manage. He already commands the respect of all the players in the locker room, and he’s not far removed from playing the game. Sherman points to the success of first-year managers Mike Matheny and Robin Ventura as a reason the Red Sox should consider the move.

For more up-to-the-minute news and analysis on the latest rumors from bloggers Chris Cwik, Jack Moore and R.J. White, follow @MLBRumorsCBS.