The speculation will continue for as long as the Red Sox’ catching situation remains unresolved.
Reports indicated Monday that the Red Sox were in on free-agent backstop Carlos Ruiz, who re-signed with the Phillies, but were unwilling to give the 34-year-old a three-year contract. Now, a new name is being tossed around in rumors involving the Red Sox.
According to the Boston Herald’s Michael Silverman, Dioner Navarro is among the free-agent catchers believed to have drawn initial interest from the Red Sox. Silverman also reports the same for A.J. Pierzynski, who has already been linked to Boston this offseason.
The Red Sox’ exact level of interest in Navarro is unclear, but it’s another name worth monitoring as we get deeper into the offseason. Ben Cherington has expressed interest in re-signing all six of the Red Sox’ free agents, including catcher Jarrod Saltalamacchia, but it’s entirely possible that the 28-year-old’s rumored desire for a three-year deal could eventually lead to his departure. David Ross is under contract for one more year, and Ryan Lavarnway appears to be big league ready. Prospects Christian Vazquez and Blake Swihart, meanwhile, are climbing the ranks within the Red Sox’ farm system.
Navarro is coming off a strong season with the Cubs in which he hit .300 with 13 homers and 34 RBIs in 89 games. Navarro, who will turn 30 in February, is a switch-hitter who earned an All-Star selection while with the Rays in 2008.
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Photo via Wikipedia/Dioner Navarro
