A sight that once seemed almost unimaginable in the baseball world is closer and closer to coming to life.
It’s starting to sound more and more likely that former Red Sox infielder Kevin Youkilis will sign with the New York Yankees. ESPN.com reports that members of the Youkilis clan are indicating Youkilis loves New York and could soon be donning Yankees pinstripes.
“Even when he was with the Red Sox, he always said he would love to play here someday,” Youkilis’ uncle, New York City restaurant owner Edward Youkilis, told ESPN.com. “He said it would be an experience like no other.”
Youkilis’ agent, Joe Bick, also told the website that his client is “seriously considering” the “very legitimate” offer on the table right now from the Yankees. According to multiple reports, the Yankees have offered Youkilis a one-year deal worth $12 million. The Yankees are in desperate need of infield help, as they are expected to start the season without Alex Rodriguez and Derek Jeter. If they were able to sign Youkilis, he could fill in at third for Rodriguez while also providing first base depth should something happen to Mark Teixeira.
Also adding to the likelihood that Youkilis could join the Yankees is a change in the market. The Cleveland Indians were reportedly interested in reuniting Youkilis with former Red Sox manager Terry Francona, but their interest has likely fallen after signing Mark Reynolds this weekend.
Could Youkilis tip his hand in the heart of Red Sox Nation on Monday night during the Patriots-Texans game on Monday Night Football? Edward Youkilis sure hopes so. The former Red Sox fan favorite will be on hand, taking in the game from a luxury box, courtesy of brother-in-law and Patriots quarterback Tom Brady.
“I’m sure at some point during the game they’ll show a shot of him,” Ed Youkilis said to ESPN.com. “Wouldn’t it be great if he was wearing a Yankees cap?”
For Red Sox fans, that would probably be the ultimate slight.
