Steven Wright has rejoined the Boston Red Sox’s rotation.
The Red Sox activated Wright from the 15-day disabled list Friday before starting a three-game series against the Kansas City Royals at Fenway Park. The knuckleballer will toe the rubber in the series opener, making his first start since Aug. 5.
To make room for Wright on the 25-man roster, Boston optioned right-hander Heath Hembree to Triple-A Pawtucket following Thursday’s game against the Tampa Bay Rays at Tropicana Field. The 27-year-old is 4-1 with a 2.40 ERA in 41 1/3 innings over 30 appearances at the major league level this season.
Wright was placed on the DL on Aug. 15 (retroactive to Aug. 8) with a right shoulder strain he suffered while diving back into second base during a game against the Los Angeles Dodgers. His return bumps Clay Buchholz from the rotation to the bullpen, even though Buchholz has pitched well while filling in as a starter of late.
Wright, who turns 32 next week, is having a breakout season. The 2016 All-Star enters Friday’s game with a 13-5 record and a 3.01 ERA in 22 starts.
Thumbnail photo via David Butler II/USA TODAY Sports Images
