Seattle activates Saunders from 15-day DL

SEATTLE (AP) Outfielder Michael Saunders was activated from the 15-day disabled list Friday following a brief rehab stint in the minors.

Saunders was in the starting lineup for the Seattle Mariners' series opener against Cleveland.

Saunders had been on the disabled list since June 11 with joint inflammation in his right shoulder. In five games at Triple-A Tacoma, Saunders hit .450 with two doubles, one home run and seven RBIs.

Saunders said the timing of his recovery was such that he didn't feel rushed but was able to get enough time in the minors to feel confident in his return.

Saunders was hitting .265 with four homers and 23 RBIs when he got injured.

Seattle optioned Jesus Montero to Tacoma to clear the roster spot. Montero appeared in five games and hit one home run.