This town ain't big enough for the both of us: Bobby V. vs. Youk

I'm so torn on this conflict it's ridiculous. Usually it's one way or the other with me, I'll make it a black and white issue, with no grey area. And that's initially how I started out on this schism between Youkilis and Valentine; I sided with the manager. But as always, the numbers can tell another story.

It's admittedly a small sample size, but in the first 3 games vs. Tampa Bay (the three games before Bobby V. made his comments), Youk had gone 4 for 10. He also drew 3 walks, getting on base 7 out of a possible 13 times. Now sure, none of his hits were for extra-bases. But nevertheless, for a guy who had just 2 hits in the team's first five games, you'll take it.

Oh by the way, the Red Sox won all three of those games vs. Tampa.

Since then? The Red Sox lost the series finale vs. the Rays, 1-0. No shame in taking 3 out of 4 vs. Tampa, right? And then the Red Sox lost to Texas tonight. And again there's no shame in losing to Texas, the two-time reigning AL Champion, right? Well, there is when you lose 18-3.

As for Youkilis tonight? 0-4. 4 strikeouts, in his first game action since being called out by Bobby V.

We know about Pedroia, the de-facto team captain, and the comments he made. I say ignore Pedroia; he's just bitter his buddy Francona isn't still in town. Having said that I feel like ultimately, Valentine really didn't need to say what he did in public? Youkilis, and more importantly the Red Sox, were having a great series vs. the Rays. Why rock the boat after it's finally been steadied? I'm still torn, so I'm gonna open this one up to a poll: who's side are you on, Bobby V. or Youkilis? This issue is far, far, far from over, so stay tuned.