The Red Sox announced Wednesday that they have claimed catcher Max Ramirez from the Rangers and designated pitcher Matt Fox for assignment. Ramirez, 26, had nearly been acquired by the Red Sox last offseason in exchange for Mike Lowell, but concerns over Lowell’s hip led to deal’s collapse. MLB.com’s TR Sullivan was the first to report the Sox’ acquisition of Ramirez.

The Rangers had designated Ramirez for assignment after signing free agent pitchers Brandon Webb and Arthur Rhodes. In adding Ramirez, the Sox now have five catchers on their 40-man roster: Jason Varitek, Luis Exposito, Ramirez, and former Ranger Jarrod Saltalamacchia.

Ramirez spent the majority of the 2010 season at Triple-A Oklahoma City, hitting .286/.373/.381 in 56 games. He hit .217/.341/.348 in 28 games for Texas. Ramirez has hit .298/.396/.476 in the minors over his seven-year career between Braves, Indians, and Rangers affiliates.

Fox, 28, made three appearances with the Sox last season after being claimed off waivers from Minnesota. He pitched 1 1/3 innings and allowed a pair of runs.