Youkilis, who tore his right adductor muscle on Monday against the Indians, traveled to Cleveland on Thursday to receive a final opinion on his injury. It was determined that surgery is the correct route for treatment, and he will go in for the procedure on Friday.
The first baseman was examined by Dr. Thomas Graham at the Cleveland Clinic, the same doctor who treated David Ortiz after he tore a tendon sheath in his left wrist. Ortiz was advised to allow the injury to heal on its own. Youkilis had similar hopes for his thumb injury, but leaving the muscle to heal on its own would cause further damage down the road.
The Red Sox will need a permanent solution for the gap left at first base, now that Youkilis is out for the remainder of the season. The team activated Mike Lowell on Tuesday after a month-long stint on the DL —Â not to mention trade rumors to the Yankees — but his injury issues spark concern.
Boston has also been working with Jed Lowrie for the first base spot. The versatile infielder has been practicing at first and could be a viable defensive solution for Youkilis.
There are also trade opportunities on the horizon for the Red Sox in the wake of Youkilis’ injury. Adam Dunn and Carlos Delgado are two names that hold rumored interest for Boston as a replacement at first base.
Can Lowell make up for the loss of Youk?
