BOSTON — Kevin Youkilis was a glaring omission from Bobby Valentine's lineup card on Monday. But don't worry, it has nothing to do with the apparent misunderstanding between Youkilis and the Red Sox skipper.
Valentine was quick to point out before Monday's game that Youkilis was out of the Boston lineup with a sore groin.
"The training room thought maybe if it was a night game, he might be able to [play], and Kevin said later in the game if I need him to pinch-hit, he's available," Valentine said.
Youkilis' absence comes in the wake of a bit of controversy regarding the veteran third baseman and the Boston skipper. Valentine discussed Youkilis' early-season struggles on Sunday, saying that he doesn't think Youkilis is "as physically or emotionally into the game as he has been in the past for some reason."
The comments drew a response from Youkilis — who spoke with Valentine in his office about the comments — and Dustin Pedroia prior to Monday's game. Valentine considers the situation a misunderstanding, though, and has since apologized to Youkilis.
"It'll be talked about and written about…And people have to understand what the truth is; and right is right and wrong is wrong," Valentine said. "And you don't legislate common sense, but I think the guys will get it. It's a good group of guys."
Youkilis is hitting .200 (6-for-30) in eight games this season, although he's shown signs of picking up his play of late.
