When the Chicago White Sox acquired Kevin Youkilis on June 24, they filled a very real need at third base. Now, as the MLB free-agency period begins, the White Sox must decide whether Youkilis fits into their plans for 2013.
The impact Youkilis provided to the White Sox was tangible. It seemed as though every hit over the first month he was in Chicago won a game. It was a marvelous time to be a White Sox fan.
Unfortunately, the season ended without a trip to the postseason and general manager Rick Hahn must now choose whether he wants to keep Youkilis in a White Sox uniform.
To be fair, Hahn stated during a radio interview Thursday on ESPN 1000’s “The Waddle and Silvy Show” that he would like to re-sign the third baseman, but only at a reduced price.
With teams like the Baltimore Orioles, Philadelphia Phillies and Los Angeles Dodgers bandied about on MLBTradeRumors.com as possible landing spots for the free agent, the likelihood Hahn gets his wish seems slim.
That is a good thing, because the White Sox are best served if Youkilis is not with the team in 2013 for 10 reasons.