This is why I don't post in the Red Sox section anymore.
I see Varitek as a leader. Aging and old, but still valuable and an asset to the function of the team.
It's like that screw that holding something together. You could remove it since it's old and might give out at any moment, but how long will it take to find a suitable replacement and is it worth the risk and test of taking out the screw and finding a new one?
The guy has got 2 no hitters in the last 2 years from kids who don't do it without him. The strongest memory I have of Tek is when he was injured I believe 2 years ago and this team was ridiculously bad. I believe in small samples and all I remember was that time was the lowest point I remember experiencing as a fan. Tek matters.
I don't know about resigning him after this year. I wouldn't mind a risk, but if our offense with Manny and others stays in place then I wouldn't mind keeping him for every reason he deserves to stay outside of his offense. However, I don't think they should give in to demands and I expect some sort of hometown discount. We're going to be dishing out enough for Manny next season.