The Red Sox have an array of offseason issues to address, beginning with their general manager, but there have been recent indications reliever Mike Timlin could be among the first free agents to return to the club. The Sox and Timlin are not believed to have resumed contract negotiations since the team was eliminated from the playoffs, but the sides were progressing toward a deal during the season, sources said. Talks subsequently were tabled until the offseason, suggesting a deal could be consummated before the free agent season officially begins next month.