The World Baseball Classic has claimed another member of the Boston Red Sox and not in a good way.
First baseman Kevin Youkilis left Team USA today in Miami to return back to Ft. Myers to be examined and undergo an MRI by Red Sox medical staff. Apparently Youkilis sprained the ankle 3 or 4 days ago according to a report by Amy K. Nelson of ESPN.com.
Johnson said the injury happened three or four days ago, and that Johnson noticed Youkilis was in pain during Team USA’s 6-5 comeback win over Puerto Rico.
“He wasn’t going to miss last night’s game for the world,” Johnson said. “We’ve been devastated by some key injuries.”
I know Youk is a gamer and playing for his country but after signing the long-term deal with the Red Sox, that should have been his first priority. He should have spoken up sooner.
Let’s hope that it’s just a minor ankle sprain and Youk doesn’t miss too much time.
UPDATE: The Boston Red Sox issued the following statement regarding first baseman Kevin Youkilis:
“Kevin Youkilis returned to Fort Myers, FL this afternoon to be examined by the Red Sox medical staff. He was diagnosed with a mild left ankle sprain as well as mild Achilles tendinitis in his left foot. Both MRI results were negative. To limit movement and allow his ankle to heal, Youkilis will wear a walking boot for the next several days but is not expected to miss significant time.
Youkilis originally experienced some pain in his left ankle several days ago and it worsened in last night’s game vs. Team Puerto Rico. He will no longer participate in the World Baseball Classic and will return to Red Sox camp tomorrow.”
