ESPN's Jerry Crasnick tweeted Sunday that both the Phillies and Indians had been monitoring the Boston third baseman during his recent rehab stint with Pawtucket. Crasnick also noted that the Indians haven't been in contact with the Red Sox about Youkilis, but they are interested in adding a right-handed bat.
The Boston Globe's Nick Cafardo wrote Sunday that he feels the Diamondbacks may also have interest in the veteran infielder, should he become available.
Youkilis had played in 18 games before hitting the disabled list with a bad back in late April. At the time of the move, he was hitting just .219 with a .344 on-base percentage. He could be activated as early as Tuesday.
In Youkilis' absence, Will Middlebrooks has been real good, despite tailing off a little as late. His power numbers have been impressive, as he's hit five home runs to go along with 15 RBIs in his 17 games with the big club. That pace has slowed in the last week, however, as he's hitting just .222 with 13 strikeouts in his last seven contests.
