SAN FRANCISCO — The Cubs activated outfielder Reed Johnson from the disabled list Thursday, and he was in the starting lineup batting leadoff and playing left field for the finale of a four-game series against the Giants.
Johnson had been sidelined since June 24, retroactive to June 18, with lower back spasms.
Today, the Cubs plan to activate right-hander Carlos Zambrano (8-3) to start the series opener against the Cardinals in St. Louis. Zambrano has been on the DL with a strained throwing shoulder.
Rays’ Bartlett goes on DL
Tampa Bay placed shortstop Jason Bartlett on the 15-day DL with a sprained his right knee.
Garciaparra, Jones return to lineup
Dodgers infielder Nomar Garciaparra (left calf) and outfielder Andruw Jones (right knee) will come off the DL today and join the Dodgers in San Francisco.
Braves activate Prado
The Braves activated infielder Martin Prado from the DL and optioned infielder Brent Lillibridge to Triple-A Richmond.
Happ called up to face Mets
The Phillies will call up left-hander J.A. Happ to pitch against Johan Santana and the Mets today.
Timlin returns to bullpen
Reliever Mike Timlin is off the DL, joining the Red Sox bullpen for the start of a four-game series against the Yankees.
The Associated Press
