Boston Red Sox Prepare to Sign Their Next Franchise Catcher...In 2010

Peter Gammons in his column at ESPN.com and Kevin Rozell in his Bleacher Report column “Could Yanks’ Land Mauer on the Open Market After 2010 Season?” both highlight the possible bidding war that may ignite next between the Red Sox and the Yankees when current Minnesota Twins catcher Joe Mauer becomes a free agent in 2010. The Yanks need to replace their aging catcher, 13-year veteran Jorge Posada. Last season, after shoulder surgery ended Posada's year, the Yanks relied on Jose Molina and, after a midseason trade, 17-year veteran Ivan Rodriquez, Molina's fellow nursing-home resident. Molina hit .216 and Rodriguez hit .216. Likewise, the Red Sox also need to replace their aging catcher, team captain Jason Varitek. While he may still be an essential part of the clubhouse, Varitek's play has declined considerably.  His offensive performance has plummeted (.220 BA since the 2007 All-Star break), and his ability to throw out runners is now mediocre at best. The first ... (link)