Youkilis To Sit Out World Series Game 3

With no designated hitter under National League rules, Boston Red Sox manager Terry Francona has decided to go with David Ortiz at first base for Game 3 of the World Series. This would mean Kevin Youkilis sitting on the bench, while Mike Lowell remains at third base.

How would this affect Boston? Would it at all?

Youkilis has been hitting a searing .396 in the postseason, and you could see the burning dedication and passion by the bearded pro. He practises his swing non-stop in between at-bats. He has been instrumental in some of Boston's crucial postseason plays so far this year.

Unfortunately, the brand of Ortiz sits larger than life in Boston. It represents quality and results - Ortiz has been more consistent in recent years than even Manny Ramirez. And if you wonder at his defensive abilities - read this - Ortiz started seven games at first base in the whole of this year with no errors made.

While Youkilis sits on the bench, Francona had not ruled out any participation on his part. With Ortiz facing a wobbly knee, if there were to be any signs of that troubling him, Francona would look to Youkilis in the later stages of Game 3. Ortiz has dismissed the issue though - he figures that the adrenalin rush of playing in the World Series and sitting pretty on a 2-0 lead would negate any pain to be felt from the injury.

One wonders if JD Drew had not rediscovered his hitting form, such a selection dilemma would have arisen.