By Jeff Louderback

Let the search for the next Red Sox manager officially begin.

On Friday, multiple media reports indicate that the team will interview former Major League third baseman and current Los Angeles Dodgers third base coach Tim Wallach for the managerial vacancy that was created when Bobby Valentine was let go.

As a player, the now 55-year-old Wallach was named to five All-Star teams and received three Gold Gloves over a 17-year Major League career. He managed the Dodgers’ Triple-A affiliate in Albuquerque for two seasons and also has served as a hitting coach with the Dodgers for two years and has spent the last two seasons as the club’s third base coach.

The 43-year-old Ausmus, who was well-respected as a solid defensive catcher and leader during his 18-year big league career, is a special assistant in the San Diego Padres front office. Other than a brief stint as Israel’s manager in the recent World Baseball Classic qualifier, Ausmus has no previous coaching or managing experience at any level.

A Connecticut native and Dartmouth alum who is interested in the Red Sox managerial vacancy, will reportedly be interviewed. Considering his lack of coaching and managing experience, Ausmus is likely best suited as a potential bench coach or base coach for the Red Sox or any Major League team.

The Red Sox are still heavily linked to current Toronto Blue Jays manager John Farrell, who has one year remaining on his contract, which means that Boston would likely have to surrender compensation to secure his services. Blue Jays first base coach former Pawtucket manger and former Major League player Torey Lovullo is another intriguing candidate who could get an interview.