Kelly Shoppach denies reported role in Red Sox Bobby Valentine complaints

Former Red Sox and current Mets catcher Kelly Shoppach said that he had no involvement in a text complaining about Red Sox manager Bobby Valentine. (Winslow Townson/Getty Images)

Former Boston Red Sox backup catcher Kelly Shoppach deflected a New York Daily News report that he was involved in sending a text message to Red Sox ownership expressing dismay with manager Bobby Valentine. Shoppach, who was traded to the New York Mets, told reporters in Washington on Sunday that he was not involved whatsoever.

"I'm really disappointed that my name was even brought up in that," Shoppach said. "I wasn't behind any texts. I actually didn't even attend the meeting. It was on an off day in New York and I stayed back in Texas with my family. I've already gotten a few text messages from former teammates apologizing that my name was even brought up in it."

"Everybody that is involved in that whole situation knows that I had nothing to do with it. So, like I said, I'm a Met now. I'm really excited to be here, around a fun group of guys. And I wish the Red Sox nothing but well. I had a great time while I was there. But I'm a Met now and I'm excited about the opportunity here."

The Daily News reported that a contingent of Red Sox had grown increasingly frustrated with Valentine during the season. First baseman Adrian Gonzalez heard their concerns and grew "tired of hearing the constant grumbling," the Daily News reported. He agreed to let the group of players, headed by Shoppach, to send a text to management complaining about Valentine. The text requested a meeting with ownership on July 26.

Shoppach said he didn't attend the meeting which, according to his Twitter feed, holds up. He tweeted this on July 26: