BOSTON -- If there has been a theme for the Red Sox this winter, it has been continuity. First, Curt Schilling was re-signed, and then Mike Lowell. It appears that the latest familiar face who will resurface for the World Series champions is long-time backup catcher Doug Mirabelli.

The Boston Globe and Boston Herald both reported on Thursday that the Red Sox are on the verge of finalizing a one-year deal with Mirabelli, who was a free agent for the second winter in a row.

Mirabelli has been Boston's primary backup catcher since being traded to the club in June, 2001. The only time Mirabelli didn't fill that role was in the first month of the 2006 season, after he had been traded to the Padres.

But the Red Sox re-acquired Mirabelli on May 1 of that 2006 season and all signs point to Mirabelli continuing in his role for 2008.

Mirabelli's specialty is catching Tim Wakefield's knuckleball. Wakefield is returning for his 14th season with the Red Sox and has always loved working with Mirabelli.

Mirabelli will reportedly earn a base salary of $550,000 in 2008, a reduction from the $750,000 he made last year.

The 37-year-old Mirabelli hit .202 with five homers and 16 RBIs in 114 at-bats in 2007. He is a .231 career hitter.

Because Jason Varitek is a workhorse, Mirabelli typically only starts when Wakefield pitches.

But the other Boston pitchers have also been comfortable with Mirabelli over the years, as he's often been credited for his defense and the way he handles the staff.