What Should We Call the Saltalamacchia Era?

We need to decide soon, because it's about to begin.

There's a nice bit of resolution here. I am tempted to say justice, but justice is too strong. This is just baseball.

Here is the Red Sox winter, for catching:

- They traded for one of the best catchers out there, Kelly Shoppach.

- They dragged their feet on Jason Varitek.

- They called up hot prospect Ryan Lavarnway.

- They dragged their feet some more.

- Recovering from the prolonged awkwardness, they managed to let Tek walk on his own terms and even look good in the process.

- They sent Lavarnway to Triple A.

- As Opening Day looms, there is little doubt that Shoppach is the backup. Salty is the catcher.

Some players might have complained about the obstacles put between them and "their" job, but we never heard a word from him.

In an ideal world, Salty would emerge as an offensive force. His history doesn't suggest that, but not having to look over his shoulder has to help.