Published December 9, 2010

What’s news on a cold Thursday morning in Boston:

Lawyer: Aides to the governor pushed for jobs at the Probation Department. Gov. Deval Patrick “has repeatedly denied his office plays the Beacon Hill patronage game.” (Herald)

Roderick Ireland is confirmed as the state’s first black chief justice. The Governor’s Council voted unanimously to confirm Ireland as the successor to Margaret Marshall. (Globe)

Sources: Slugger Carl Crawford has a $142 million deal with the Sox. The Tampa Bay Rays left fielder is a four-time All-Star and a first-time Gold Glove winner this year. (AP)

The third suspect in the Mattapan murders was tried four years ago. Edward Washington, charged with four counts of murder, was linked to a violent Dorchester gang. He was acquitted of a racketeering charge. (Globe)

Robert Manning, the UMass trustees chairman, suddenly resigned yesterday.“It follows a decision last week by UMass Lowell chancellor Martin T. Meehan to drop out of the running for the presidency, after Patrick and his staff raised concerns about the selection process.” (Globe)