The current state of Kevin Youkilis

[Ottisrocks]

We have seen Youkilis grow up into a fine ball player, working his way from AAA Pawtucket to (and excelling) at the big stage in Boston. Some have grown to love 'em some to hate 'em (I would say I'm a part of the not a fan group but that is not the point of this thread) and he has left quite the legacy here in Boston. However, it seems Youkilis has reached a crossroads in his career. I understand players have their off nights but Youk's 4 K performance was his second one in his career, with the last time being in 2007. Now thats 4 years ago Youk has put up such a performance. This also coming off the heel of his manager publicly questioning his drive and passion for the game and accompanied by an abysmal start at .176 (6-34).

Now yes I know it's early but you have to look at everything that has been presented to Youk. Bobby V (as much as I don't like the guy) wouldn't blindly question the drive of Youk. To make such an assumption Bobby must have seen something through the spring and into the start of the season that made him atop and think "this guy doesn't want to be here anymore." Wether or not Youks drive is there anymore or has faded away into the sunlight, Bobby V and (assuming ofcourse) the front office sees someone who may no longer be there. Why is it so important that Bobby V and Co. question Youks passion? Well simply because they have a hot young talent itching to get his shot at The Show. Middlebrooks has started right out of the gates (.333/.347/.583) along with 3 HR's. He's no joke and he may end up being of the better 3rd Basemen in the league, such as a young Youkilis.

I wanted to know your thoughts on everything. When do you think it's Will's turn to give the bigs a shot? Is it too early to rule out Youkilis so early despite everything? Any thoughts on Youks career status is welcome.

[DaaBoTownSox]

According to Soxprospects.com, Middlebrooks isn't expected to be called up until next year.

As for Youk, it is certainly troubling to see his struggles thus far. He's barely living up to his nickname (The Greek God of Walks) also.

I would have to say he stays on the team though. I don't see him being replaced by Middlebrooks this year.

I do think either way, he is done after this year however.

[Ottisrocks]

According to Soxprospects.com, Middlebrooks isn't expected to be called up until next year.

As for Youk, it is certainly troubling to see his struggles thus far. He's barely living up to his nickname (The Greek God of Walks) also.

I would have to say he stays on the team though. I don't see him being replaced by Middlebrooks this year.

I do think either way, he is done after this year however.

I saw Middlebrooks coming up barring Injury from Youk (which I feel is inevitable) but I could be wrong.

[DaaBoTownSox]

I saw Middlebrooks coming up barring Injury from Youk (which I feel is inevitable) but I could be wrong.

What injury? Perhaps lingering effects from the Sports Hernia?

[Ottisrocks]

What injury? Perhaps lingering effects from the Sports Hernia?

I'm talking Mid-Season I wouldn't be surprised to see Youk injured maybe not on DL but injured wether it's the Hernia or something else.

[yankeebiscuitfan]

How much I dislike Youkilis, I don't rule him out yet. The season is only two weeks underway. He still may need to find his groove. I don't think V should only point at one player. Most of the Red Sox have been underachieving the past two weeks.
And if this guy in the minors is about to take Youk's spot, The Red Sox should play it fair and not play it it dirty by badmouthing Youk.

Just my two cents.

[Mickey Mental]

Personally I think Valentine is an idiot. Why would you question the drive of a player you might possibly want to trade later in the season in case your team goes in the tank? Oh wait, it's Boston.

[Mudge]

Fenway opened the same week that the Titanic went down.

Now in the 100th anniversary of both, it would appear that there's a strange corollary.

[Mickey Mental]

Youkilis homered in last night's game. Valentine was heard to be muttering, "He's not running around those bases very quickly."

[Mex86]

Sometimes I think Valentine believes he's still working for ESPN. Anyway, now you're getting a glimpse as to why he was so beloved in NY.