The Captain?

Jason Varitek, who wears a "C" on his jersey like a hockey captain does, had his club option for one year and $5 million rejected by the Red Sox earlier this week. After a miserable year behind the plate and a decreasing ability to throw base runners out, Boston brought in Victor Martinez at the trade deadline. While Martinez is no better at throwing runners out, he provides a legitimate middle of the order threat. On Wednesday, Varitek decided that he would take his one year, $3 million player option and return to the Red Sox. Why? Because it was more than he could get from any other team. He clearly has more value to the Red Sox than he would to any other team, and they did not find him to be worth the money. The question now is will Varitek continue to wear the "C". I do not see how he can. Every player will know that the team did not really want him back, so I find it hard to believe teammates will view him in that regard. Varitek has long been considered one of the better game callers and leaders in the game, it is a shame to see him go out this way.