Kevin Youkilis, starting third baseman for the Boston Red Sox, has been placed on the 15-day disabled list with a sore back on Thursday afternoon. In a retroactive move, the team has called up catcher and DH Ryan Lavarnway.
"[Youkilis'] lower back has been bothering him for a while," Francona said. The team left him at home as they traveled to Kansas City and sent him to Massachusetts General Hospital where he had a shot administered, Francona said.
"Were really excited about [Lavarnway]," Francona said. "Maybe this kid comes up and gives us a spark." Francona said he would probably be used as the designated hitter while David Ortiz recovers from bursitis in his right heel. (via WEEI)
Youkilis is batting .266 with 17 home runs and 78 RBI this season, but has been struggling mightily as of late, as he is batting .134 (9-for-67) in the month of August. Lavarnway is batting .293 with 30 home runs and 85 RBI in the minors this season between Double-A Portland and Triple-A Pawtucket.
For more Boston Red Sox coverage, visit our team page and blog, Over The Monster.