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Cherington On Varitek: Hope He's 'Part Of Red Sox In Some Way'

BOSTON (CBS/AP) – The Boston Red Sox already have a pair of catchers in Jarrod Saltalamacchia and Kelly Shoppach, but they would still like to find a spot for veteran backstop Jason Varitek.

"As far as Tek is concerned, we have incredible respect for Tek," general manager Ben Cherington said on a conference call Thursday morning. "I have incredible respect on a personal level. We, as an organization including ownership, have incredible respect for him and the contributions he's made."

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"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."

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Red Sox owner John Henry also expressed his interest in retaining Varitek in a different capacity.

"He should be a part of this organization for the rest of his life," Henry said. "No matter what he decides to do, he's always going to be welcome here. He's a huge part of the history of this organization, which is why he should be a part of the future of this organization."

Varitek's agent, Scott Boras, said he hasn't spoken to the Sox about a role for Varitek...other than as a player.

"I've had discussions with them about 'Tek, but it's been about playing," Boras said. "Any thoughts about coaching have not been addressed, to my knowledge."

Varitek is a free agent after hitting .221 with 11 home runs and 36 RBI in 68 games in 2011, his 15th season with Boston.

Boston already has two major league catchers in Saltalamacchia and Shoppach, and are also bringing along prospect Ryan Lavarnway. It is possible the Red Sox could bring the 39-year-old Varitek back in an off-field role, if he feels his playing days are over.

(TM and © Copyright 2011 CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS RADIO and EYE Logo TM and Copyright 2011 CBS Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)

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