BALTIMORE (AP) - The Baltimore Orioles hope the return of second baseman Jonathan Schoop will provide a spark to the worst offense in the American League.
Schoop was activated from the disabled list Tuesday following a three-week stay with a right oblique strain. During his absence, the Orioles went 3-17 and dipped deep into last place in the AL East.
Baltimore entered Tuesday’s game ranked last in the AL in batting average, runs, total bases and slugging percentage.
Although he got off to a slow start this season - batting .230 with one homer and three RBIs in 14 games - Schoop was inserted in the cleanup spot against the Royals.
“It’s good to have John’s skills and his personality back on the club,” manager Buck Showalter said.
Schoop hit .293 with 32 homers and 105 RBIs last season, earning a spot in the All-Star Game for the first time.
Schoop also solidifies an infield that is without third baseman Tim Beckham, who’s sidelined following core surgery.
“You know the capability is there, and more importantly, his teammates and the other team know that,” Showalter said.
Schoop declared himself 100 percent healthy and “ready to go” following a rehabilitation assignment with several minor league teams.
His first objective is help get the Orioles (8-26) back on track.
“It’s tough, but I know they want to win,” he said. “I hope we can start a winning streak, turn it around today.”
The clear room for Schoop on the roster, the Orioles optioned infielder Engelb Vielma to Triple-A Norfolk.
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