The pitching troubles have nothing to do with Varitek. I'm sick of hearing this. The pitching is in a slump. How a catcher handles a staff is one of the most overrated things I have seen people talk about. To prove it, read this: http://www.boston.com/sports/baseball/redsox/extras/extra_bases/2011/04/a_closer_look_a_3.html
Like he says, Beckett was good before he ever had Varitek. Clay Buccholz actually has a higher ERA with him. That to me proves this "Varitek handles them better" theory is nothing. Having Varitek start and catching everyone isn't going to help this team. The problem has been pitcher's command, and movement, stuff like that. Dice-K was throwing meatballs down the middle, even though Salty was setting up all over the place. Lackey's stuff just hasn't looked good and has been easily hittable. Same with Buchholz. Lester had 2 good starts in a row, and his best start actually came with Salty behind the plate. Wake is unpredictable.
In the end it just looks like the pitching staff didn't get enough time in during spring trainings or something. Guys have no command, no feel for their pitches. Some are throwing weaker. Give them time and it will turn around regardless of who's catching them.