New York • Kevin Youkilis is leaving the major leagues after an injury plagued season and heading to Japan. The three-time All-Star has agreed to a one-year, $4 million contract with the Rakuten Golden Eagles of Japan's Pacific League.
After nine seasons with the Boston Red Sox, Youkilis signed a $12 million, one-year deal with the New York Yankees last year. But he suffered back problems and hit just .219 with two homers and eight RBIs over 28 games and 105 at-bats.
The Associated Press