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Red Sox Sign Catcher Kelly Shoppach

Found December 13, 2011 on Bloody Sox: Yardbarker Blogger Network
PLAYERS: Kelly Shoppach,  Jarrod Saltalamacchia,  Jason Varitek,  Ryan Lavarnway
TEAMS: Boston Red Sox,  Tampa Bay Rays

Cleveland_indians_at_fa90
The Red Sox have signed Kelly Shoppach to a 1 year/$1.35 million deal to be the backup catcher to Jarrod Saltalamacchia, bringing an end to Jason Varitek’s tenure with the organization. Shoppach has played seven seasons with the Indians, Rays and Red Sox. He has a career .227/.318/.431 slash line with a .322 wOBA and 7.4 WAR. Jason Varitek, who has been with Boston since 1997, will turn 40 at the beginning of the 2012 season. Varitek has been the captain of the team since 2005, following the first Red Sox World Series win in 86 years. Varitek has not ruled out playing for another team, but is likely to retire. Red Sox stud prospect Ryan Lavarnway will begin the season in AAA Pawtuckett as a result of the signing.
Original Story: http://www.bloodysox.com/2011/12/13/r... Verified_ybn
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