Rob Biertempfel writes that the Pirates are involved in serious trade talks with the Red Sox regarding first baseman / third baseman Kevin Youkilis.

I've heard from multiple sources that Youkillis talks moving very fast today and #RedSox are still talking with #Pirates and couple others

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Pirates are VERY much in mix for Youkillis.

Youkilis isn't having a good season and there isn't much space for him in Boston, but he was very good for six years running from 2006 to 2011, so he would be a good gamble to improve the Pirates' offense, which (despite some strong recent play) has been one of the worst in the majors this year.

Youkilis makes $12 million this year, plus a $1 million buyout next year. That's actually a good thing, in a way, because it means the Pirates ought to be able to get him primarily by offering to pay part of his remaining salary, rather than by giving up a good young player.

With the Pirates, my guess is that Youkilis would play regularly against lefties, either at first or third, and frequently against righties, taking over first base while Garrett Jones moves to the outfield.

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