Kevin Youkilis Trade: Pittsburgh Misses Out On Corner Infielder, Headed To Chicago White Sox

It's been rumored for a while now that Kevin Youkilis was likely headed from the Boston Red Sox to the Chicago White Sox via trade, but Sunday it finally happened.

Scott Merkin cites a source that said Chicago sent infielder Brent Lillibridge and right-hander Zach Stewart, who had recently been sent to Triple-A Charlotte, to Boston. Youkilis, 33, figures to move into the starting third-base role immediately, since it was vacated by Brent Morel and his ongoing recovery from a lower lumbar strain.

Orlando Hudson had been playing third for the White Sox, but he had previously never played third base over his 11-year MLB career.

The Pirates, who can use offensive help, were once a part of the rumors about who would land the former World Series champion, but the White Sox seemed to be the destination all along.

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Kevin Youkilis Trade Rumors: After Being In, Pirates Now Out Of The Mix?

Earlier on Saturday it was reported that the Pittsburgh Pirates were in "serious" talks to acquire Boston Red Sox infielder Kevin Youkilis. This news was originally reported by Rob Biertempfel, Pirates beat writer for the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review.

It now seems, however, that a trade may longer be taking place, according to what Biertempfel recently posted to Twitter:

New source telling me two sides had talked, but #Pirates are "likely" out on Youkillis "at this point."

— Rob Biertempfel (@BiertempfelTrib) June 23, 2012

There is no indication on what may or may not have transpired between the two teams, considering the stark contrast of reports only hours apart. Youkilis might provide a nice boost for the Pirates' weak offense, playing first or third against lefties and allowing Garrett Jones to move to the outfield against righties.

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Kevin Youkilis Trade Rumors: Pirates 'Very Much In Mix' In Talks With Red Sox

Could the Pirates upgrade their offense by landing the veteran corner infielder?