Decision Time on Varitek

The Red Sox face a very tough decision on what to do with their captain. When Varitek signed his last deal for 4 years he was the backbone of team and led the Sox in to two World Championships. This season he struggled at the plate but his help with the pitching staff cannot be underestimated; take Jon Lester and Dice-K's improved pitching this year as an example.

Theo does not like to give player past their prime long term deals, look at his track record with Damon, Nomar, and Pedro. When he did give a longer deal to Lowell he was burned by an injury so he will be very leary of going long on Tek. I would bet the Red Sox will not offer anything longer than 2 years to Tek with the potential for a team option for the third year.

There are some big varibles that also come into play in this decision. Varitek had some off the field troubles this season with his divorce which may have affected his performance on the team. Tek is also represented by Scott Boras which means there will be some other teams involved and the years other teams might be willing to offer will go beyond Boston's offer. There are not many catchers out there on the market and with the deal Posada recieved last season this could turn out to a big time bidding war.

Sean McAdam looks at the issue in today's Herald and Mike Eagan has a quick look in the Hartford Courant.