The Red Sox all but completed their construction of the 2009 team today when they re-signed outfielder/first baseman Mark Kotsay to a one-year contract.

And they also made a move to fortify their future, as they reportedly agreed to a four-year, $40 million contract extension for Kevin Youkilis.

The addition of Kotsay virtually fills Boston's complement of non-catching position players, The team will now have Kotsay and Rocco Baldelli as outfield backups to Jason Bay, Jacoby Ellsbury and J.D. Drew, and will utilize Kotsay, Youkilis, Dustin Pedroia, Jed Lowrie, Mike Lowell and Julio Lugo in the infield. David Ortiz is the designated hitter, and the two catchers brings the number of non-pitchers to 13 . . . which is what Boston aims for, since Terry Francona prefers a 12-man pitching staff.

Kotsay joined the Sox in late August last year in a trade with the Atlanta Braves and became Boston's starting first baseman late in the season and in the playoffs after Youkilis moved to third base in the wake of Lowell's hip injury. He can also play all three outfield positions.

To make room for Kotsay on the 40-player roster, the Sox designated reliever David Aardsma for assignment.

The Red Sox formally announced Kotsay's signing. The news of Youkilis' extension was broken by Peter Gammons on ESPN.com.