Key Reliever Returns To Red Sox Prior To Series Finale Vs. Rays

The Red Sox expected Lucas Sims to make more of a mark during the September stretch run when they acquired the reliever from the Cincinnati Reds at the trade deadline, but an injury prevented that from happening.

But Sims still has a chance to contribute over the final 10 games of the regular season.

The Red Sox activated Sims from the injured list prior to Thursday’s series finale against the Tampa Bay Rays at Tropicana Field. Boston optioned lefty Bailey Horn to Triple-A Worcester to make room for Sims on the active roster.

Sims landed on the IL on Aug. 27 with a right lat strain after making 11 appearances for the Red Sox. The right-hander was a part of Boston’s second-half bullpen struggles as he allowed nine earned runs in 10 innings for a bloated 8.10 ERA. He did pick up four holds.

The bullpen continued to let the Red Sox down in Sims’ absence, but he gives Alex Cora another veteran arm to call upon. Kenley Jansen, who is dealing with a shoulder issue but fought through it to pick up the save Wednesday, Chris Martin and Justin Slaten will be the go-to options in the later innings for Cora with Sims trying to bridge the gap to them or filling in for a member of that trio when they need a rest day.

With Sims back in the mix and Horn optioned, the Red Sox bullpen is almost entirely right-handed. The only left reliever on the active roster is Zach Penrod, who made his MLB debut last week.

Sims will try to help the Red Sox at least make things interesting over this last stretch of the season with Boston entering their road matchup with the Rays 3 1/2 games back of the Minnesota Twins and Detroit Tigers for the third and final American League wild-card spot.