From The Boston Globe:
Another huge managerial name, Tony La Russa, came close to hanging it up but opted for a two-year, $8.5 million extension with the Cardinals. Major league sources indicate La Russa had a chance to sign a multiyear deal with the Cincinnati Reds because of his relationship with owner Bob Castellini but would not commit to anything beyond two years.
I'm not sure it really matters, but it is at least slightly interesting since all we have heard since the Dusty Baker signing is that the Reds got who they wanted all along. Makes it tougher to believe that if they were also pursuing LaRussa.
Also check out the Dusty Baker interview from the same article (starts at the bottom of that page).