Boston Red Sox trade Kevin Youkilis to the Chicago White Sox
The Boston Red Sox pulled the trigger Sunday by parting ways with World Series Champion third baseman and fan favorite Kevin Youkilis. After nine years of calling Fenway Park his home, the 33-year-old was dealt to the Chicago White Sox for two players, utility man Brent Lillibridge and right handed pitcher Zach Stewart. Plagued by injuries and having the worst year of his professional career, Youkilis lost about half of his playing time to rookie third baseman Will Middlebrooks.
Though he wasn’t too happy about his stint on the bench, I’m sure it only made sense considering he has batted a grim .163 since June 2nd. “Youk” was no longer considered a major threat in Boston’s offense, holding only a .234 average, with 4 home runs and 14 RBI this season. Rumors of a trade surfaced back in mid-April, after Red Sox Manager Bobby Valentine made public comments regarding Kevin’s “lack of commitment” to the game. Since this happened, the two had supposedly worked out their issues, but I’m sure the relationship between them was never 100% percent mended.
The trade appears to have a great chance of being beneficial for all sides. The Red Sox acquire some much needed pitching, and with their recent history of injury, a utility player such as Lillibridge could come in pretty handy. Youkilis joins a first place White Sox team, with hopes of returning to the playoffs once again. Chicago gets a .287 career hitter out of the deal, also adding a veteran face to their clubhouse. With Adam Dunn and Paul Konerko having outstanding seasons, Youkilis is bound to come up with big hits, taking advantage of his new ball club’s lineup. Who got the best end of this trade? Only time will tell.
