Kevin Youkilis Trade: Boston Red Sox Deal Third Baseman to Chicago White Sox

Multiple sources are reporting that Kevin Youkilis has been traded from the Boston Red Sox to the Chicago White Sox this afternoon following a teary final game at Fenway Park.

Youkilis and cash considerations were dealt for utility infielder Brent Lillibridge and pitching prospect Zach Stewart.

There were reports prior to the trade that the Red Sox were willing to pay $5 million of the $8 million left on Youkilis' contract and the cash considerations likely is that money.

Stewart was scheduled to start for the Charlotte Knights Sunday afternoon but he was pulled in anticipation of the trade.

Youkilis shed tears and tipped his hat to the crowd at Fenway when he was removed from this Sunday's game for a pinch hitter in the seventh inning. The crowd, who had given him ovations in each at bat responded with a standing ovation as he left the field.

The Red Sox found the 33-year-old surplus to requirements after the emergence of rookie slugger Will Middlebrooks at third base. Youkilis has also had trouble staying healthy over the past few seasons, something else that contributed to his exit.

Youkilis, who is hitting .225/.311/.359, has a chance to push Orlando Hudson for the starting job at the hot corner for Chicago. He won't have to wait long to return to Fenway however. The White Sox are in Boston for a four-game set starting July 16.

The White Sox are 38-34 and currently lead the American League Central. The Red Sox are also 38-34 and five games back in the American League East. Boston is a game and a half out of a wild card spot.