Projo Sox Blog

By Joe McDonald
Journal Sports Writer

FORT MYERS, Fla. _ During the offseason Red Sox manager Terry Francona did not want to think what life would be like without Jason Varitek.

Fortunately for Francona, and the rest of the club, the captain re-signed and arrived at spring training in great shape.

"It means a lot," said Francona. "He wears the 'C' on his uniform for a reason. They don't hand that out very often. There's a reason behind it. He's in great shape and it makes our lives as manager and coaches a lot easier, knowing he's back there putting those fingers down."

Varitek no doubt had his struggles at the plate in 2008, but he'll work with hitting coach Dave Magadan and will look to improve in that aspect of his game for '09.

The switch-hitting catcher has an easier time from the right side of the plate rather than the left. He hit .284 from his natural side, while compiling a .201 average from the left.

Francona said it's going to be interesting to see what type of season Varitek has offensively.

"I'm not really comfortable criticizing his swing on the first day of camp," the manager said. "We're not going to penalize a guy for having a difficult time last year. That wouldn't make a lot of sense. He's been a good player for a long time and he's worked hard this winter."

 Tags  Jason Varitek Red Sox Terry Francona

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