'Tek's future remains unclear; Sox want him in organization.

• Jurisdiction: United States
• Date: 16 December 2011

Byline: Jimmy Golen

BOSTON - The Boston Red Sox want Jason Varitek back.

It might not be as a player, though.

Two days after signing free agent Kelly Shoppach - giving the Red Sox a full complement of three catchers who are expected to be on the major league squad - general manager Ben Cherington said the team is still talking to the captain and longtime backstop about remaining with the ballclub "in some way."

"We have incredible respect for 'Tek. I have incredible respect for 'Tek on a personal level," Cherington said yesterday on a conference call with reporters to discuss the team's latest moves. "We, as an organization and ownership, have incredible respect for him and for the contributions he's made.

"Our hope is that 'Tek will always be a part of the Red Sox in some way."

Cherington would not elaborate on private discussions with Varitek and his agent, Scott Boras, but said they are working to "figure out what's best for the Red Sox, and what's best for him." It has been long assumed that when Varitek is done playing he would join the Boston coaching staff.

But Boras indicated Varitek might not be ready to retire.

"I've had discussions with them about 'Tek, but it's been...