Romy Gonzalez Returns To Red Sox After Shoulder Surgery

In desperate need of infield depth, the Boston Red Sox got a familiar face back.

The Red Sox activated Romy Gonzalez off the 60-day injured list and inserted him into the starting lineup for Sunday's series finale against the rival New York Yankees. Third-string catcher Mickey Gasper was optioned to Triple-A Worcester and outfielder Roman Anthony was transferred from the 10-day IL to the 60-day IL to make room for Gonzalez on the 40-man roster.

The Anthony transaction was simply a paperwork move as he has already missed nearly 60 days after going on the IL retroactive to May 5.

Gonzalez, who can play first base, second base and third base, underwent surgery on his left shoulder in spring training. He had a bit of a scare when he sustained a hip flexor injury during his rehab assignment last weekend while playing at Triple-A, but it turned out to be nothing and he wrapped up preparing to return to the Red Sox this week.

His bat will be a nice addition to the Red Sox's offense. Last year, Gonzalez slashed .305/.343/.483 with nine homers and 53 RBIs in 96 games.

Gasper has appeared in 34 games for the Red Sox this year, slashing .243/.305/.308 with no homers and seven RBIs.