Bats is back: Blue Jays activate Jose Bautista, DFA Junior Lake

The Toronto Blue Jays have made the obvious official, activating right-fielder Jose Bautista from the 15-day disabled list in time for their series against the San Diego Padres.

Bautista’s timing couldn’t be better as the Blue Jays are coming off a series loss to the Seattle Mariners and entering some critical divisional play.

The original diagnosis of Bautista’s turf toe indicated that he could be out for the entire month of July and potentially longer, so given the unpredictable nature of the injury, the Blue Jays have come out rather fortunate.

In four rehab games between the advanced-A Dunedin Blue Jays and triple-A Buffalo Bisons, Bautista went 2-for-14 with a home run. He last played on June 14th in Philadelphia.

Bautista was hitting .230 at the time of his injury, but providing the Blue Jays with his typical on-base ability as he filled in as the unexpected leadoff hitter for a stretch. He currently has 12 home runs on the season, just two shy of joining the 300 home run club.

The 35-year-old is expected to see his regular time in right field but could be given a longer look at DH as manager John Gibbons works to keep him on the field.

Junior Lake has been designated for assignment in a corresponding move. The 26-year-old Dominican outfielder remains immensely talented, yet inconsistent. He hit .206 in 38 plate appearances with three doubles and a home run.