Nationals activate center fielder Revere from 15-day DL

CHICAGO (AP) The Washington Nationals reinstated speedy center fielder Ben Revere from the 15-day disabled list, boosting the top of their lineup.

The Nationals' leadoff hitter had been sidelined since the season opener because of a strained right oblique. To make room, Washington optioned outfielder Matt den Dekker to Triple-A Syracuse before Friday's game against the Chicago Cubs.

Acquired from Toronto for reliever Drew Storen in January, Revere felt discomfort while swinging at a pitch at Atlanta on April 4 and missed 27 games. He hit .306 with two home runs, 45 RBIs, 31 steals and 84 runs for the Philadelphia Phillies and Blue Jays last season.

Den Dekker batted .194 in 17 games for Washington.