The news comes after months of negotiations between Varitek and Red Sox officials. Varitek filed for free agency back on October 31st, 2008 almost three months ago.

It appears as though no specific time was set by either side, however it was made apparent that the Red Sox  wanted an answer by today’s end. Boston.com has reported that the Red Sox actually sent Varitek and his agent a letter via registered mail, serving him with an ultimatum.

An official announcement is expected to be made after Varitek undergoes a physical abiding to Red Sox policies.

Many fans and players including Curt Schilling had hoped for the catcher to return to his home behind the plate despite his lower-than-usual offensive numbers last season.

Jason Varitek was a Type A free agent who rejected the Red Sox’ arbitration offer earlier this offseason. He started 120 games for the Red Sox in 2008, his lowest number of career starts recorded – except in 2006 when injuries played a role.

The Boston Globe is reporting that Varitek has until 11:30 A.M. EST today to make his final decision. However, ESPN’s Jayson Stark just reported at 11:40 A.M. EST. that the 11:30 deadline (which has now passed) was nothing but a “media creation”.

It has also been said that Varitek is seriously considering sitting out the 2009 season or just hanging up the spikes on his career. Either way a decision is expected to come very soon!

The Red Sox have offered the catcher a 1-year $5MM contract that still remains on the table.

Jason Varitek is a Type A free agent who rejected the Red Sox’ arbitration offer earlier this offseason. He started 120 games for the Red Sox in 2008, his lowest number of career starts recorded – except in 2006 when injuries played a role.

Pitchers and catchers are due to report to Spring Training on Feb. 12.

Developing Story…..

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 MLBTradeRumors.com and other news sources, the Red Sox are expected to offer Jason Varitek arbitration.

In return, the ‘Sox would get two first round picks if the catcher was to sign with a different team. If the arbitration offer is accepted, Varitek would be wearing a Boston Red Sox jersey for at least one more season.

Scott Boras, Jason Varitek’s agent has expressed his concern with playing full-time. Varitek started 120 games for the Red Sox in 2008, his lowest number of starts recorded, except in 2006 when injuries played a role.

The Red Sox organization has not spoken a word to the Media or Varitek.

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Updated Friday, November 28, 2008 11:45 EST.