DENVER (AP) -The Colorado Rockies activated right fielder Brad Hawpe from the 15-day disabled list before their game with the Milwaukee Brewers on Friday night.
Hawpe has been out since May 21 because of a strained right hamstring.
To make room for Hawpe, the team optioned center fielder Cory Sullivan to Triple-A Colorado Springs. Sullivan hit .167 in nine games with Colorado.
Hawpe has gotten off to a slow start this season, hitting just .231 with three homers and 17 RBIs in 42 games. He went 1-for-11 with four strikeouts in three rehab games with the Sky Sox.
“I talked to him this morning and he’s itching to go,” manager Clint Hurdle said. “We’re happy to have him back.”
Hawpe, known to be a streaky player, started slowly last season and went on to reach career highs in home runs (29) and RBIs (116).
Hurdle said the reason the team chose to send Sullivan down was because of the looming interleague contests. The Rockies want to keep outfielder Seth Smith to use him as a designated hitter.
“We decided to keep some offensive potential more than Sully’s versatility on defense,” Hurdle said. “I don’t doubt we’ll see him again.”
Reliever Luis Vizcaino made his fourth rehab appearance with the Sky Sox on Thursday, and could be activated as soon as Saturday. Vizcaino has been out since April 4 with a strained right shoulder.
Jason Hirsh gave up four runs in 4 1-3 innings for the Sky Sox on Thursday, but Hurdle said he’s not setting a timetable for when the starter could rejoin the team. Hirsh has been out all season with a strained right shoulder.
“He will stay in the rotation (in Colorado Springs),” Hurdle said. “He needs more work.”
Matt Holliday is scheduled to play for Colorado Springs tonight. The All-Star outfielder has been out since May 25 with a strained left hamstring.
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