Jason Varitek Re-Signs with Red Sox

Although there were some rumors earlier in the offseason that Jason Varitek would leave the Boston Red Sox, those rumors turned out to be unfounded. On Friday, Varitek re-signed with the Red Sox after agreeing to a one-year deal.

According to multiple reports, the contract is worth $5 million. There’s an option year for a second season that would cost the Red Sox $5 million. If they turn down the option year, Varitek will have a $3 million player option.

The 36-year-old catcher is coming off of an underwhelming season. In 2008, he hit just .220 with 13 homers and 43 RBIs. His batting average represented a career-low and his RBIs were a low since the 2001 season in which he only played 51 games.

Varitek has been a staple on the Red Sox for much of the last decade. He played one game in 1997 before slowly moving his way into the starting catcher position for Boston. During his tenure, he has set an MLB record for most no-hitters caught.

While he’ll likely remain an important part of the team in 2009, Varitek will need to hit better to solidify his spot in the everyday lineup for the Red Sox.