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October 3, 2007
By Joe McDonald
Journal Sports Writer
BOSTON _ Red Sox outfielder J.D. Drew has taken a ton of abuse from fans this season, so he knows how difficult it can be to play in this market.
He made one quick and to-the-point statement after last night’s 4-0 victory over the Angels in Game One of the ALDS at Fenway Park. He was besieged by a horde of local and national media when he said: “Fans in Boston love him.”
The “him” he was referring to was none other than Red Sox first baseman Kevin Youkilis.
Youkilis provided a huge offensive spark for Boston last night with a solo homer – his first career postseason hit – in the bottom of the first inning.
“I got a good pitch, a good fastball to hit, and took advantage,” said Youkilis. “I didn’t try to do too much, and luckily I got a good result out of it. I was very happy that it got out.”
It was a good sign for Youkilis and the Red Sox due to the fact he’s been hampered with a sore wrist for the last few weeks, but he showed no ill effects after he added a double to his performance last night.
“It felt a lot better as the days have progressed,” he said. “I feel like I’m progressing well. I think the biggest thing is the wrist doesn’t hurt as much now, and our training staff has done a great job helping me out and getting me ready. The best thing about it is, it’s playoff time and adrenaline helps the most.”
He reached career-highs this season in batting average (.288), home runs (16) and RBI (81), and if last night was an indication, he’s primed for a solid postseason, too.
Youkilis was on Boston's roster for the 2004 ALDS against Anaheim and the World Series against St. Louis. He went 0-for-2 in Game Two of the ALDS in his only postseason action. The Red Sox didn’t reach the postseason last Fall, but they’re ready to do some damage this October and Youkilis will be a big part of it.
“How great is that to keep playing in October?” he asked. “That’s the best felling you can have. Your adrenaline never gets as high as it does right now.”
Posted by Joe McDonald 
at 11:01 PM | Permalink
