Youkilis back in White Sox lineup vs. Tigers

Kevin Youkilis returned to the White Sox lineup on Monday after missing two games to witness the birth of his son.

The third baseman is batting second against the Tigers and Rick Porcello as the AL Central-leading Sox open a crucial four-game series against second-place Detroit. The Sox have a two-game lead.

Adam Dunn remains out of the lineup with a strained oblique. Dewayne Wise will bat third and play left field, with Dayan Viciedo taking Dunn’s spot as the designated hitter.

The Sox are 3-2 against the Tigers at U.S. Cellular Field this season, but 1-8 at Comerica Park. They are hitting .227 with 17 homers and own a 5.02 ERA against the Tigers, who have outscored them 66-49.

The White Sox lineup:

Alejandro DeAza CF

Kevin Youkilis 3B

Dewayne Wise LF

Paul Konerko 1B

Alex Rios RF

A.J. Pierrzynski C

Dayan Viciedo DH

Alexei Ramirez SS

Gordon Beckham 2B