Youkilis (back) scratched from Sunday's game

Kevin Youkilis will miss Sunday's game against the Blue Jays because of back stiffness.

DUNEDIN, Fla. -- Third baseman Kevin Youkilis was scratched from Sunday's game against the Toronto Blue Jays, the victim of some stiffness in his lower back.

"He had three at-bats (Saturday), '' said manager Bobby Valentine, "and he had a little stiffness in his lower back, so he stayed back for treatment. He'll get some minor league at-bats (Monday), so he can get caught up. He'll get as many as he needs.''

In minor league games, managers can control game situations, so Youkilis will lead off every inning, but will be instructed not to run the bases to avoid further stress.

Youkilis is hitting .214 in Grapefruit League play this spring with six hits in 28 at-bats and two RBI.