The Red Sox will be without the services of third baseman Kevin Youkilis for the second straight game Monday, as the right-handed slugger's tight back will keep him out against the left-handed Tommy Milone in the first game of Boston's series against the Athletics. First pitch is at 7:10 p.m. EST with broadcasts by NESN and WEEI.

While the Sox certainly could have used some help against Gavin Floyd Sunday, being without Youkilis against a left-handed pitcher is an even greater waste. That he will be replaced by Nick Punto, who has shown no ability to produce for the Red Sox in his limited opportunities, makes it all the more difficult a pill to swallow.

Even without the help of Youkilis, however, the Sox' lineup seems rather more impressive (at least given the left-handed competition) than that of the Oakland Athletics. Ever struggling to push runs across the plate, the main question tonight will be whether Clay Buchholz can take advantage of such questionable competition to get his season turned around before it's too late.

Boston Red Sox (10-11)

1. Mike Aviles, SS
2. Dustin Pedroia, 2B
3. Adrian Gonzalez, 1B
4. Cody Ross, RF
5. David Ortiz, DH
6. Kelly Shoppach, C
7. Darnell McDonald, LF
8. Marlon Byrd, CF
9. Nick Punto, 3B

Oakland Athletics (11-12)

1. Jemile Weeks, 2B
2. Coco Crisp, LF
3. Josh Reddick, RF
4. Yoenis Cespedes, CF
5. Seth Smith, DH
6. Kurt Suzuki, C
7. Daric Barton, 1B
8. Brandon Inge, 3B
9. Cliff Pennington, SS