Red Sox Lock Up Youkilis Through 2012

From Peter Gammons:

The Red Sox locked up another of their young stars to a long-term deal Thursday.

Boston avoided arbitration with Kevin Youkilis, agreeing to a four-year contract with the first baseman worth more than $40 million, sources told ESPN's Peter Gammons. The deal includes an option for a fifth year.

Youkilis enjoyed a breakout season in 2008, hitting .312 with 29 home runs and 115 RBIs.