The Last Hurrah for Youkilis

The Red Sox started a 9 game home stretch last night, with Kevin Youkilis going 1-4 and scoring an insurance run in the 6th after doubling to right.

At the start of the game, Ken Rosenthal and John Paul Morosi reported that trade talks involving Youk have intensified over the past 24-48 hours, suggesting that his time in Boston is coming to an end. Teams that have expressed interest in one form or another include the Diamondbacks, the White Sox, the Dodgers, the Indians, and the Pirates.

The Red Sox will certainly need to eat a portion of Youkilis' remaining 2012 $7 million contract and the $13 club option for 2013. His play over the next couple of games will determine how much money the Sox need to cover, and what return they get for the 33 year old. Expect Youk to be in the heart of the lineup (he batted 5th last night) consistently on this home stand in order to get the most production out of them.

Unsurprisingly, Youkilis has hit much better at home than on the road this season, which should help show scouts that his bat is not completely dead (he's only 5 for his last 37). Red Sox Nation has always adored Youkilis, and hopefully will show him their appreciation for him over the next 8 games, as it may be his last in Fenway as a member of the Sox.

The Greek God of Walks will be remembered fondly by Red Sox fans, but the torch must be passed. In Middlebrooks We Trust.