Boston Red Sox: NESN Reports That Kevin Youkilis Will Go to One of 3 Teams

NESN.com reported Sunday that Kevin Youkilis' most likely destinations, if he is traded from Boston, are the LA Dodgers, Arizona and Philadelphia. Boston GM Ben Cherington claims that all trade talks involving Youk were started by other teams and not the Red Sox. 

Of those three teams, I think the Phillies are most likely to get Youk. They've really been struggling this year, and it will take much more than a solid return by Ryan Howard to overcome the Nationals and Marlins. Besides, the Phillies have been very aggressive in adding talent over the past few years without much regard for cost, such as when they signed Cliff Lee. 

With a dwindling window of opportunity for the aging Phillies' nucleus, management will be even more willing to get help for the team. 

As a Rockies fan, I was intrigued when I heard the Rockies were possibly interested in Youkilis, but I know the cautious approach of GM Dan O'Dowd would never allow for such a risky trade.  Besides, the Rockies' best infield prospect, Nolan Arenado, is nearly ready to break in at the majors. Youkilis is only under contract through this season (he has a team option for 2013), but he would be a rather expensive bridge to Arenado.

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