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Heyman: Red Sox Still Discussing Possible Jason Varitek Return

BOSTON (CBS) - The Red Sox have internally discussed bringing Jason Varitek back to the team, according to CBSSports.com's Jon Heyman.

When the Red Sox signed catcher Kelly Shoppach to a one-year deal in December, many assumed it would spell the end of the 39-year-old catcher's career with the Red Sox.

Heyman's report comes despite the team's depth at the catching position with Shoppach, Jarrod Saltalamacchia and Ryan Lavarnway.

"It's possible Boston people are just being polite to a longtime Red Sox loyalist. But it seems like more than that," Heyman wrote.

After the Shoppach signing, Red Sox GM Ben Cherington gave an early indication that the team would like to bring Varitek back in some capacity.

"Our hope is that Tek will always be a part of the Red Sox in some way," added Cherington. "As far as what that means immediately, what we want to do is keep talking with Tek and not discuss that in a public forum, but continue talking to Tek and (Agent Scott Boras) and figuring out what's best for the Red Sox and what's best for the team."

Last season, Varitek hit .221 with 11 home runs and 36 RBI over 68 games.

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