BOSTONIST has the exciting news today that Red Sox first baseman “Kevin Youkilis has signed up to market a new energy drink entitled … SlumpBuster.’” We love the (pantless?) can:

BEV NET has confirmation that indeed, the venture is a real one: “Red Sox Gold Glove first baseman Kevin Youkilis has teamed up with California based MBSB Holdings, LLC to produce a new energy drink geared towards sports fans and athletes. SlumpBuster, a term widely recognized by athletes and fans, will be launched in the 1st quarter of ‘08 with hopes of being the official energy drink of locker rooms and stadium concession stands worldwide.”

And there’s even more exciting news about Youkilis’ involvement.

“Under the terms of the partnership, Youkilis will serve as lead spokesperson for the product . In addition, MBSB is currently working with Youk in developing “Youk’s Signature” SlumpBuster. The special edition can will be rolled out in the Northeast and Midwest., with a portion of the proceeds from “Youk’s Signature” being donated to Kevin Youkilis Hits for Kids, Kevin’s charity.

“Get involved and be the first in your area to “Take Down a SlumpBuster”.

Take down a SlumpBuster? Apparently the owners of the company are unaware of the true origins of the *word*.

(not inspiration for drink) Maureen Dowd, also gives us a clue in the NEW YORK TIMES (via RED SOX MONSTER): “In a segment called ‘Slump Busters,’ Mr. Canseco writes: ‘As everyone knows, baseball players are very superstitious. Players who are struggling start talking about how they need to go out and find something to break their slump. And often enough it comes out something like this: ‘Oh my God, I’m 0-for-20. I’m going to get the ugliest girl I can find and have sex with her.‘ “We love the double entendre involved in marketing this drink, which we’re sure will absolutely fly off the shelves. In fact, we’ve heard the Colorado Rockies already have 25 cases on pre-order.