Cardinals activate Grichuk from 15-day disabled list

ST. LOUIS (AP) The St. Louis Cardinals have activated rookie outfielder Randal Grichuk from the 15-day disabled list, but only to pinch run for the time being.

''You're back but you're kind of back,'' Grichuk said after the move was made Sunday. ''But being able to help the team a little bit is better than nothing.''

The 24-year-old Grichuk missed 18 games with a strained right elbow but remained among the National League rookie leaders in doubles, triples, home runs, RBIs and extra-base hits. He was sidelined earlier this season with a lower back strain. He hasn't been cleared to hit or throw.

Grichuk was batting .284 with 15 homers and 44 RBIs.

Grichuk said he's been swinging a bat for several days and is scheduled to start throwing Monday and taking batting practice Tuesday. General manager John Mozeliak said Grichuk could perhaps play by next weekend and join an outfield already crowded when Jon Jay was activated on Friday.

''It's a good problem to have if you're management,'' Grichuk said.