Yeah I don’t think they would just deal him without his permission if they wanted to re-sign him beyond this year. But I think they would ask him if he wants to go to a contender to try to get a ring and then talk in the off-season.
No, it's not yet their search is always a joke. Honestly, AJP says he's open to manage, is already collecting a paycheck from the team, and is a Sox legend. He's got the makings to be the next Sox manager (by Jerry's book).
A lot of stuff is LaRussa's fault but this isn't one of them. If he comes and pitches in a tie game Saturday or Sunday I'm sure the result is the same.