Waiting on 'Tek

Tony Massarotti has pretty much summed up the Varitek situation in this video blog by Boston Globe. I don't see how Varitek can turn this deal down. He will be signing for more than 3 times the current rate for a veteran catcher of his offensive output over 2008 (.220 batting average).

My question really is this. What do the Red Sox do if Varitek really is at the end of his career and struggles even more so through 2009? I believe they must still trade for a young, offensive minded catcher to be mentored by Varitek. Say Varitek hits below the Mendoza line. You can't keep that in the lineup everyday. Having someone to step in would be huge. Personally, I hope as a fan of the Red Sox and Varitek, that he will return to somewhere around .250-65 batting average. I think everyone would be happy with that.

Should Varitek decide to turn this offer down, he would be in much worse shape than the Sox. Where would he go? It could be the end of his career, although I highly doubt that. On the other hand, if he doesn't sign with the Sox, the Sox can trade for a young stud in a heartbeat. They would just have to give up the right prospects, something they've been reluctant to do thus far.

Finally, keep in mind that John Ferrell would make an excellent mentor to a young catcher. He is quite the pitching coach and is more than capable of making the calls from the dugout.

I hope 'Tek returns to the Sox. I hope he returns to his old form of .280 and 20 dingers. He won't, but as a fan I can hope. Either way, spring training a couple weeks out, and it won't wait on anyone.