D-backs activate David Peralta from IL, option Stefan Crichton

The Arizona Diamondbacks activated outfielder David Peralta from the injured list on Monday, a welcome return of a player who has been a key bat in the team’s lineup in 2019.

To make room for Peralta, the D-backs optioned right-handed pitcher Stefan Crichton to Triple-A Reno.

“I know what he means to this team, I know what he means to this lineup,” D-backs manager Torey Lovullo said of Peralta before Monday’s game. “His energy and presence in this lineup were missed and they’re much needed. Glad to have him back.”

Peralta, who had been on the shelf to recover from right AC joint inflammation, was placed on the IL on May 24, retroactive to May 22. That made him eligible to return on June 1, so his return comes only a few days after the earliest possible date.

The 31-year-old has hit .309 with seven home runs and 30 RBI this year in 46 games played. He also has a .881 OPS, a higher mark than last season when he won a Silver Slugger Award.

Peralta is slotted in the No. 3 hole on Monday against Dodgers pitcher Walker Buehler.

Crichton was making his second stint in MLB and his first since 2017. He appeared in four games, pitching 2.2 innings and not allowing an earned run. He gave up one hit and no walks in that time.

The move also means the D-backs again have four position players on the bench, a move Lovullo expects to be the norm because of the potential length out of the bullpen from Zack Godley and T.J. McFarland.

The D-backs play the Dodgers on Monday to begin a three-game series at Chase Field. You can hear that game at 6:40 p.m. on 98.7 FM Arizona’s Sports Station.

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