Around the Horn: Saturday

In yesterday's "Around the Horn" I discussed whether Varitek's resigning with the Red Sox makes a trade for one of our catchers more or less likely, leaving the question open ended. Today in the news, there are three at least two notes (from Jim Reeves and Jeff Wilson) voting strongly in favor of less likely. Given that Boston never seemed terribly excited about trading away Clay Buchholz anyways, I would have to agree.

Jim Reeves at the Star Telegram discusses Ian Kinsler's invaluable role in Michael Young's decision to accept the third base move. Good article; its nice to hear about Kinsler's dedication to the Rangers and his willingness to help Young figure everything out. It smooths over a multitude of worries I had concerning this situation and how it might be a recurring issue.

And that is all for today . . .

Jason Varitek Signs with Red Sox

It has just been reported that Jason Varitek has agreed to a one-year deal with the Boston Red Sox worth $5 million. That seems to be a lot less than he was initially asking for, but I suppose that's how it goes when you hit .220 in a contract year.

I wonder how this will affect possible trade discussions between the Rangers and Red Sox. On one hand, it makes a trade less likely and decreases our chances of receiving premium pitching like Clay Buchholz in return. On the other hand, Jason Varitek would make a great mentor to a young, fresh catcher like Saltalamacchia who would welcome the opportunity. In that regard, it may not threaten the Rangers' at all. With the pitching depth the Sox just added in John Smoltz and Brad Penny, Buchholz is much more expendable . . .