'Tek Talk With Theo At The Winter Meetings In Las Vegas, Nevada USA

It's Saturday morning and the fun is about to begin. And where else but the city of fun (and much more), Las Vegas, Nevada. Jason Varitek will decide by tomorrow (Sunday) whether or not to accept arbitration. I certainly hope he does. That would guarantee Boston one more year of his services and it would guarantee Jason a salary of $10 million dollars or more. Even better, having Varitek return with a short-term contract and trading for a younger catcher who will be the future of Sox catching would be an ideal situation for Theo & company. Epstein's formula in one sentence? Here you go...

“We try to acquire players in their prime or entering their prime,” said Epstein. “That’s our focus.”

And when asked about the possibility of the Sox signing 'Tek AND acquiring a young and talented catcher...

“That’s a desirable outcome,” Epstein said. “We also have catchers-in-waiting in the minor leagues who are talented but not quite ready to step into a prominent role right now. We’ll see. I’m confident we’ll find a way to end up with a reputable catching corps that will have us set up for not only 2009, but also the future.”

Peter here, and I'm quite confident, too. Boston has already filled one big hole in the bullpen with a brilliant trade. The 'pen right now is in good shape. Another starting pitcher would be ideal but not pivotal. What's crucial is to acquire another corner infielder. Think Mark Teixeira. It will cost the big bucks, but that's money the Red Sox have to spend. And mark my words...spend they will. So strap yourselves in and buckle your seatbelts...the offseason fun is about to begin. Throughout this weekend and next week, my birthday week, I'll have one eye on the sports news and one ear on ESPN Sportsradio 1410 here in Hartford. Their 20 minute updates have been the basis of many "flash news" type of posts.

I want to wish every one of you a great weekend. The winter meetings, college football (I don't care about that much) and NFL football (will the Giants lose another game?) will fill the bill. You can title click for the latest from the Sox page over at projo dot com and as always, BE WELL. Shalom.

Oh, I wanted to wish OJ a wonderful weekend. He's EXACTLY where he belongs! At least nine years, Juice. I hope they go verrrry slowwwwly.