From ESPNBoston.com
"Jason was one of the most respected players of his era and will be a key voice as we move forward," said Cherington. "He will be involved in a number of areas including Major League personnel decisions, evaluations, mentorship and instruction of young players. We are fortunate to have him in this role."
When he was back in town this week for the needless eighth-year anniversary of the 2004 World Series squad and the All-Fenway team the next night, Varitek admitted to the bored and beaten down media that he was on the verge of a new role in Boston. This at least temporarily ends the speculation that he could replace Bobby Valentine as manager next season. That might sound like a crazy idea but Mike Matheny (Cardinals) and Robin Ventura (White Sox) have both proven this season across MLB that prior managing experience is overrated.
We can argue about what this job really entails for Varitek but more than anything, I think it is recognition by the franchise that getting back to their championship roots would be a good thing. This is the third season in a row that the Red Sox haven't made the playoffs which is an eternity around here, especially with the type of payroll and expectations they routinely possess.
I've said all along that by far the most interesting part of 2012 for the Red Sox will begin next Thursday (the day after the regular season ends). Fingers and toes crossed that Valentine will be rightfully fired and then Cherington, John Henry, Tom Werner and Larry Lucchino get a second chance to make a much better hire. If they could also speed up the process and not take way too long, that would probably help the public perception. Baby steps with this group as they try to dig out of the wreckage from the last miserable 13 months.
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