May 15, 1979
6' 1", 220 LBS.
Drafted: 2001
2003:
Kevin Youkilis, the closest top Red Sox prospect to the majors, started 2003 at AA Portland. He hit .327, hit 6 home runs and knocked in 37 runs. His On Base Percentage was .487. He tied a minor league record with a 71 game on base streak, tying Kevin Millar's streak. He was promoted to AAA Pawtuckett and struggled, hitting .165 with 2 home runs and 15 runs batted in. His On Base Percentage was .295. His combined numbers were .285, 8 HR, 52 RBI, .449.
Outlook:
Youkilis will battle for a utility job in spring training, but will likely start the season at AAA Pawtuckett. His struggles at AAA last season hurt his chances of starting 2004 as Bostons 3B. Youkilis has a tremendous eye for the strike zone, which fits in very well with the Red Sox OBP philosophy. Nicknamed "The Greek God of Walks," Youkilis has had on base percentages flirting with .500 every year for 3 years. Youkilis projects to develop more power, but currently shoots the gaps. He is not a terrific fielder, and may be moved to first base depending on the Red Sox needs in the future.
ETA: Late 2004
