MIAMI -- The Miami Marlins reinstated All-Star second baseman Dee Gordon from the disabled list prior to Tuesday's series opener against the Washington Nationals and placed infielder Donovan Solano on the paternity list.
Gordon, who dislocated his left thumb July 11 on a headfirst slide into first base for an infield hit, couldn't participate in the All-Star Game because of the injury, though he did attend the festivities. Miami, originally optimistic he could avoid the DL, placed him there July 17.
The two-time All-Star went 1 for 4 in a rehab game with Single-A Jupiter on Monday. Manager Dan Jennings said Gordon had been hitting off a tee before then. Head athletic trainer Sean Cunningham watched his swings in person at Roger Dean Stadium in the minor-league game. He also took grounders with infield coach Perry Hill on Tuesday.
Despite missing 10 games with the injury, Gordon still leads the National League with 122 hits. His .338 average and 33 stolen bases rank second in the National League.
Miami regains its leadoff batter after going 3-7 in his absence. Ichiro Suzuki, Christian Yelich, Cole Gillespie and Adeiny Hechavarria saw time in the slot. Martin Prado, who came off the DL after nursing a right shoulder sprain, had started at second base nine times. Casey McGehee and Derek Dietrich split duties at Prado's spot at third.
"Huge, big," Jennings said. "You know what, he's been our catalyst all year. The fact he brings the energy and he's healthy. I think we're very lucky and blessed. It was the minimum time on the DL. He's a welcome sight. I know the guys are happy to have him back. Dee just has that spark about him. That's the way he plays, that's the way he lifts everybody. He's having an All-Star year, and it's nice to have him back at the front end of this lineup."
You can follow Christina De Nicola on Twitter @CDeNicola13 or email her at cdenicola13@gmail.com.
