The Texas Rangers activated right-hander Jakob Junis from the 15-day injured list Saturday, bringing back one of their most reliable bullpen arms before their game against the Athletics.
Junis had been sidelined since late July due to a left adductor strain. He was placed on the IL on July 30, retroactive to July 29, and missed 15 games without making a minor league rehab appearance.
The 33-year-old has been a key piece of the Texas bullpen in his first season with the club. Junis is 1-1 with five saves, a team-leading 14 holds and a 2.70 ERA across 36 appearances, including one start.
He has struck out 30 batters and issued seven walks over 40 innings. Texas has gone 28-8 in games in which Junis has appeared.
This marks Junis’ second return from the injured list this summer. He also missed 11 games at the start of July due to a right hip impingement.
To make room on the roster, Texas designated left-hander Marco Gonzales for assignment.
Gonzales, 34, had been selected from Triple-A Round Rock one day earlier and recorded a one-pitch double-play grounder against the Athletics. He made three relief appearances over two stints with the Rangers this season, allowing one earned run in 6 2/3 innings for a 1.35 ERA while collecting one save.
