Farrell surprised by Leyland's resignation

BOSTON -- A day after the Red Sox eliminated the Tigers in the American League Championship Series, Red Sox manager John Farrell thought enough of Jim Leyland to send him a heart-felt text.

"I had sent him a text [Sunday] morning just to congratulate him and the organization on not only a great team, but a great year," said Farrell. "And I expressed the respect that we have for him and certainly for all the success he's had in his career."

By Monday, Leyland announced he was stepping down as Tigers manager.

"And then to see the announcement today, to listen to him and know that early September this was very clear in his mind, that's surprising," Farrell said. "My gosh, when you take a step back and you see someone who's managed for what, 22 years, it's a hell of a career and I'm sure one he's extremely proud of."