Sizemore activated, Sipp promoted

Little late posting this, as I was navigating the rugged terrain of the Pennsylvania Turnpike at the time it became official, but Grady Sizemore was activated from the 15-day disabled list today.

To make room for Sizemore on the active roster, the Indians optioned outfielder Trevor Crowe back to Triple-A Columbus.

And in a separate roster move impacting the ever-evolving bullpen, the Indians promoted left-hander Tony Sipp for the third time this year and designated right-hander Luis Vizcaino for assignment.

Entering the week 13 games under .500 and 10 games back in the American League Central Division standings, the last-place Indians are hoping the returns of some key players from injuries will spark them. Sizemore will only do so if the elbow, which had been bothering him since Spring Training, continues to cooperate.

Arthroscopic surgery, which would have sidelined Sizemore for an additional four to six weeks, was avoided because the elbow responded well to treatment. Now, the Indians will see how it responds to in-game activity. The Indians did not take the extra precaution of having Sizemore take part in a Minor League rehab assignment prior to promoting him – a measure they are currently taking with shortstop Asdrubal Cabrera, who sprained his left shoulder joint earlier this month and was set to begin rehabbing with Double-A Akron tonight.