Pudge Rodriguez, who is catching for Puerto Rico against the Red Sox today as his team readies for the World Baseball Classic, spoke before today’s exhibition game about his ongoing search for a team:

Pudge on his current status: “Nothing is firm right now. There are a few teams that have shown interest. Hopefully something will happen soon so I can come back and play after the World Baseball Classic … I have a lot of games (to play). I just need a team to play with on a regular basis and I can have a great year.”

Pudge on watching the Jason Varitek situation this offseason: “Jason went through a tough time. I’m glad he’s back with Boston. This is his home. He belongs here. It was hard. What he went through and what I’m going through in free agency, it’s tough. All of these situations are probably because of the economy and what’s happening in the world. You’ve got to keep working, keep waiting, and stay positive.”

On possible signing with the Mets: “It could be a great thing to go to. I think that’s a great fit, that team, having me there. Working with a young pitching staff, that could be great for the team. Hopefully the Mets can do whatever they need to do to have a spot for me. That would be a great place to be. If it happens, I’ll be happy.”

Would Pudge be a backup: “That’s something we’ll have to decide what’s going to happen. I don’t have control. The manager has control of that situation.”

On signing a one-year deal: “I’d be OK with anything, to be honest with you. I want to play. I love this game. That’s probably what’s going to happen. If it happens, I’m feeling 100 percent, in great shape. I can handle it, have a great year and next year is another year.”

On the interest of teams: “My agent and I, the conversation we had is (regarding) Houston and Florida. There have been rumors about the Mets, also. But as of right now, there’s nothing firm. Nothing has happened. We’re still waiting.”

And here is Red Sox third baseman Mike Lowell talking about his former Marlins teammate …

“He’s the type of catcher who can help a team. Do I think he’s an MVP-type catcher? If most people thought that people would be knocking on the door to get him. I don’t really know if the situation is a money thing. I don’t see how it can be now. I’ve got to believe there’s a team that can use him, because defensively he’s still very good.

“If people want the Pudge that’s hitting 25 or 30 home runs every year, I don’t think you’ll get that. But I still think you’ll get a very productive catcher.”

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