Kelly Shoppach is back where he started. Shoppach returns to Boston in a backup catching role, similar to his position in Tampa Bay last year. The Sox sign Shoppach to a 1-year, $1.35 million deal.
Saltie's new backup signals the end of Jason Varitek's 15-year stint in a Red Sox uniform. Varitek has set every record imaginable for a Red Sox catcher - from most games caught, 4 no-hitters caught, most HR's to 2 World Series rings. The captain has done it all.
Shoppach also gives up & comer Ryan Lavarnway more time to mature in triple A, although Lavarnway's progress may spill over into starting time after the All-Star break or if there is an injury. He could see time at DH as well should Big Papi falter.
The Sox finally have a trio of catchers that can adequately handle a position that has been a sore spot in prior years due to Varitek's decline in hitting & throwing out runners. This was a small signing, but an important one.
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