NewsKotsay activated by Red Sox from DL
Outfielder/first baseman set back by calf injury after surgeryBy Ian Browne / MLB.com
06/02/09 7:30 PM ET
DETROIT -- How does Mark Kotsay feel to at last be on the active roster? The first baseman/outfielder jokingly started an interview session by clapping for himself.It has been a sometimes tedious road back for Kotsay, who underwent back surgery in late January and then had his return to the Red Sox delayed by a month when his right calf acted up during a Minor League rehab game.
But there he was in Detroit on Tuesday, ready to play a role off the bench whenever Red Sox manager Terry Francona needs him.
"I didn't obviously meet the timeframe that I had set out for myself -- unfortunately, the calf set me back a little," said Kotsay. "Everything happens for a reason. Maybe the back wasn't ready in the timeframe I set out for myself. Maybe I needed another month, and maybe that's why the calf came about. But I'm back. It's June 2, there's still four months left and hopefully a postseason to contribute to this club."
To make room for Kotsay on the roster, the Red Sox optioned Jeff Bailey back to Triple-A Pawtucket.
Kotsay proved to be a solid member of Francona's bench after being acquired from the Braves last August.
"He gives us that veteran presence, and a left-handed hitter," Francona said. "He gives us more of a defensive guy and some leadership. He's a great guy to have back."
Ian Browne is a reporter for MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.
