Sox Still Looking For A Catcher?

Rumor has it the Sox are still kicking around the idea of signing a young catcher. Sox most serious discussions for a catcher have taken place with the Texas Rangers (for Jarrod Saltalamacchia) and the Arizona Diamondbacks (for Miguel Montero). The asking price for both was too high for the Sox liking, which is why they ultimately resigned Tek, but now that the dust has settled the Sox have bought themselves time to find the eventual replacement for the captain. Texas has an absolute log jam at the catcher position. It is really crazy to think about, but Texas actually has 4 very good catchers. So at some point they are going to need to move at least a couple of them. That could put the Sox in a good position to lower the asking price, and get their hands on some young talent for a position that is one of the only weak spots throughout the Sox franchise.

Miguel Montero Trade Update

The Red Sox and Diamondbacks seem to be getting closer to a deal that would bring 25-year-old lefthanded-hitting catcher Miguel Montero to the Sox. Diamondbacks demands do not seem to be as high as the Rangers from Salty, so this deal has a chance. Arizona wants a prospect of equal value in return, and they don't care if it is a hitter or pitcher. The Sox still need a catcher as Josh Bard is just not going to cut it, and this guy may be perfect. He has some power, and is very solid defensively. There are obvious questions if he would be able to take the pressure of playing for the Sox, but seems to have a lot more upside than the Red Sox free agent alternatives.

In 2006, with time split between Double A and Triple A, Montero batted .286 with 17 home runs and 75 RBIs in 117 games. He struggled in the MLB (.239 15 HRs in 414 at bats), but has not got the chance for regular playing time.

The other reason these rumors could be coming out is to drop the price on Salty, or Varitek. I'll keep you updated as information becomes available.


-BMack