Jason Varitek Expected To Reject Arbitration
December 6, 2008 by Ribbie3b
Filed under Baseball Rumors, Extra Bases
Catcher Jason Varitek may be forced to make a career-changing decision come midnight this Sunday, December 7th. The long-time Boston catcher will be faced with the decision of either accepting or rejecting the Red Sox’ offer of arbitration.
If Varitek decides to decline the offer and the Red Sox fail to sign the catcher, they would be awarded two 2009 draft picks; a first-round and another random pick later in the draft.
Agent Scott Boras has been expressing his concerns involving playing time for Varitek since the conclusion of last season.
Varitek started 120 games for the Red Sox in 2008, his lowest number of starts recorded, except in 2006 when injuries played a role.
With that being said, and with Boras seeking a multi-year contract, the arbitration offer currently on the table is highly expected to be declined.
RBI Magazine conducted a poll when we first heard about Varitek’s situation. Out of 584 total votes; 78% (457) believed Jason Varitek will be wearing a Red Sox jersey next year. 68 voters agreed Varitek will not play for Boston next year.
Other free agents such as Mike Timlin and Sean Casey have not been offered arbitration by Boston as negotiations continue.
Updates to follow….
if Varitek does indeed reject the arbitration offer from the Red Sox, I have a feeling Boston will regret not re-signing Varitek next season……not a smooth move by the ‘Sox if you ask me….