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….

According to Boston.com and other news affiliates, Junichi Tazawa has signed a three-year, 3 million dollar contract with the ‘Sox. The 22 year-old pitcher is expected to arrive in Boston sometime this week to undergo a physical.

Tazawa a native from Japan, who has no professional experience, is expected to begin his career in the minors but will also occupy a position on Boston’s 40-man roster.

His transition from the Minors to the Majors is expected to be within a few months.

The Texas Rangers have been in the chase for Junichi Tazawa, but Tazawa has expressed more personal interest in working out a deal with Boston.

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