Kevin Youkilis has taken the recovery process of his injured thumb into his own hands, and told reporters last week that he hasn't ruled out playing for the Red Sox this season. That is, if the team makes the playoffs.
Now, that's a mighty big if, and, like Youkilis says, a lot of other things have to align just right if he's going to get back on the field this year. Also, this latest prognosis in his injury process is a decision that's been made by him, not his doctors.
"That's me. I hope I come back and play," Youkilis told reporters. "A lot has to happen. We've got to win to get in the playoffs. I'm hoping to do that. I may not be able to play at all, but I'll try to give myself the best chance."
Many have already ruled the Red Sox out of the playoffs this season. With their stream of injuries combined with the tough competition in the AL East, it will take a miracle for Boston to snag a postseason bid. But miracles have happened in this city before, and the team has done well in the face of adversity this season.
Youkilis is "very confident" his team can make it to the playoffs without him in the lineup, and the gritty leader is hoping to join them there.
"People are coming up to me and saying, 'You don't have a chance anymore.' I say, 'Wrong,'" Youk said. "These guys have a great chance because we have great players here who want to win and have fun."
