The Boston Red Sox must move struggling third baseman Kevin Youkilis this summer if they are going to contend for a World Series title this fall.
According to ESPN The Magazine‘s Buster Olney, a trade involving Youkilis could happen at any moment based on the Red Sox’s interest to move him, opening up an infield position for talented rookie Will Middlebrooks.
According to the report, the Chicago White Sox appear to be a contender in a potential trade for Youkilis, as they have expressed interest in acquiring the veteran.
Youkilis responded to the swirling rumors via fullcount.weei.com:
“I have no thoughts on anything. I haven’t been told anything. Until I’m told anything, I can’t really respond.”
The rumors have been flying since the start of the month, and the 33-year-old Youkilis has not been offering up a solution, hitting just .174 this month with zero home runs and 10 strikeouts with a week left before the start of July.
The veteran is now batting just .225 on the season, while Middlebrooks, who is 10 years younger, is hitting .319 with eight homers and 31 RBI. Middlebrooks also boasts an impressive .558 slugging percentage in 39 games with the Red Sox in 2012.
Only one player can hold down third base for Boston, and right now the better option for manager Bobby Valentine is the surging Middlebrooks.
Boston can trade Youkilis and acquire some value in return. The move will not only reduce the drama on Valentine’s daily plate, but also allow room for a potential star to grow at third base. Middlebrooks has thrived since being called up to the Red Sox.
Although fans would likely be disappointed to watch Youkilis leave Beantown, the only city he has ever represented in the majors, the Red Sox faithful are surely aware of the young piece they have to take over in the infield.
Youkilis has been in a slump all season long and has already butted heads with Valentine this year. If the Red Sox want to position themselves for the future and eliminate some of the drama that led to their demise in 2011, they must trade Kevin Youkilis this summer.
Follow Patrick Clarke on Twitter for more takes on the latest MLB trade rumors.
Read more MLB news on BleacherReport.com