BOSTON — The Boston Red Sox, who came within one win of reaching the World Series, will bring back most of their coaching staff for the 2009 season.

First base coach Luis Alicea is the exception; the team said he will not be offered a contract for next year.

Pitching coach John Farrell, third base coach DeMarlo Hale, hitting coach Dave Magadan, bench coach Brad Mills, and bullpen coach Gary Tuck have been asked back, the team said.

Also Wednesday, the team announced that right-hander Chris Smith elected free agency after being designated for assignment. Smith was 1-0 with a 7.85 ERA in 12 appearances with Boston; he also appeared in 37 games for Triple-A Pawtucket last season.