After not being named to the 2011 American League All-Star team, Boston Red Sox third baseman Kevin Youkilis will now have to make other plans for next week.

Kevin Youkilis #20 of the Boston Red Sox leaves the game after being hit by a pitch against the Toronto Blue Jays at Fenway Park on July 4, 2011 in Boston, Massachusetts.Originally after not being named, Youk wanted to rest up as he’s been battling through a few injuries. But with Alex Rodriguez of the New York Yankees taking himself out of the game, Youk was tabbed to replace him at third base.

The consensus out there right now that I could gather after the announcement is that while everyone is happy for Youk, they’d rather see him stay home and rest. I have to say I agree with the sentiment 100%.

The Red Sox will have 72 games remaining after the All-Star break. With Youk battling through those nagging injuries, I think the rest would be much better for him. Sure being an All-Star for the third time in his career is great and all, he’d be better served getting himself ready for the stretch run.

What happens to the Red Sox if Youk gets re-aggravates one of his injuries during the game. The Red Sox are screwed. You just can’t replace a bat like Youk. The same goes with his glove.

Hopefully, he’ll think about it and do what’s best for him. And in my opinion and the opinion of many others, that is STAY HOME and rest.