That is the song most likely running through Jason Varitek's head right now.

With the Red Sox picking up Victor Martinez for another year with their club option it leaves El Capitan in between a rock and a hard place. Unfortunately as we all know Jason had a less than stellar 2009 at the plate after coming off a 2008 with some of the lowest numbers of his career. Couple this with the .336 average from Martinez since coming to Boston and we can all see which way the Red Sox will be leaning when it comes to picking the starting catcher for the 2010 season. The question is though will Jason Varitek be there to choose from?

With his lack of offence in recent years and the laws of nature that cease us to get any younger as time goes on his options are very few.

1. Retirement - Whilst he still retains a personal option for 2010 and the club could pick up their club option, would he really want to come back as the back-up catcher? If he retires now he retires as the Captain not the back-up catcher who wishes he could produce like he used to.

2. Free agent - Once again he could dip his toe in the free agent market but after the lack of interest from other clubs last year I don't see this being realistic. Realism however is not part of Scott Boras' vocabulary so if this happens expect Boras to market the hell out of Tek both to other teams and to Tek himself. If another team were to pick him up though it would be most likely as a back-up catcher.

3. Player option - If Jason takes his option it will see him signed for another year. With the lack of interest in Tek on the free agent market he has very little value on the trade market, so unless he comes out and with the extra rest is able to put up good numbers expect it to be his final season.

No doubt there are far more confusing options available but as I see it this is where he stands. Barring a comeback season where his throwing arm magically gains 50% velocity and his batting average rivals Joe Mauer (slight mancrush) I think the best thing would be for Tek to retire and go out with some respect. Boston fans are as cut-throat as pirates of the seven seas when a player doesn't perform and it would be a shame for someone who has meant so much to the team to disappear into the mist with 3 bad years hanging over his head.

So Jason, should you stay or should you go? Thankyou for all you have done but I think it is time for you to go. But go with the respect you have earned as Captain of this team and as one of the best defensive catchers of all time.