MIAMI (AP) — Left-hander J.P. Howell has been activated by the Tampa Bay Rays, one year and one day after he underwent surgery to repair a left shoulder injury that sidelined him all of last season.
Howell was a key member of Tampa Bay’s AL championship team in 2008, and he had 17 saves in 2009.
The Rays also optioned right-hander Rob Delaney to Triple-A Durham on Friday. Outfielder Justin Ruggiano’s contract was selected from Durham, and infielder Dan Johnson was designated for assignment.
Howell bolsters a bullpen that already ranked fourth in the AL with a 3.20 ERA heading into the start of a weekend series against the Florida Marlins.
Ruggiano hit .301 with six homers and 11 stolen bases in 37 games for Durham.
