The running assumption shared by fans and media members alike is the fact that the Boston Red Sox will be trading Kevin Youkilis in fairly short order.
It is a solid assumption considering his contract status, age, and the production of his replacement, Will Middlebrooks.
While Youkilis has been proving his worth through solid play over the past several days, the Red Sox have been forced to look at a few different needs than they assumed would exist at this point in the season.
The outfield is a mess. The pitching staff is in need of help, and the bullpen will likely need some relief in short order if the starting staff cannot maintain pitching six or more innings per outing.
That said, here are five players that the Boston Red Sox should have on their radar as the trade deadline grows closer.