Red Sox News: Kike Hernandez returns to the lineup for Blue Jays series

The Boston Red Sox will have Kike Hernandez back in the lineup

The Boston Red Sox have activated Kike Hernandez from the from the injured list in time for a pivotal three-game series with the Toronto Blue Jays that begins on Tuesday. He will be in the lineup and playing center field to open the series.

Hernandez has been sidelined since May 6 with a hamstring injury but proved that he was ready for action with an epic performance during his rehab assignment with Triple-A Worcester on Sunday. The 29-year-old blasted a pair of home runs, including the first grand slam in WooSox history, while driving in five runs.

The Red Sox optioned infielder Jonathan Arauz to Triple-A Worcester yesterday, foreshadowing the return of Hernandez.

Boston will insert Hernandez back in his familiar spot at the top of the order for Tuesday’s game. He’s underwhelmed while adapting to his new role, batting .239 with a .723 OPS in 30 games this season. A sub-.300 on-base percentage isn’t what you want from your leadoff hitter.

Hernandez does bring a bit of pop to the top of the lineup though with four home runs, seven doubles and a triple. The 457-foot grand slam he hammered during his rehab assignment is further evidence of the damage he’s capable of.

He also provides value with solid defense in center field and second base. That versatility gives manager Alex Cora some added flexibility when filling out the rest of the lineup.

Hernandez also brings an infectious positive attitude that will be welcome in the clubhouse and in the dugout. His energy can give the team a spark even when he’s not producing himself.

In his absence, the Red Sox have been forced to turn to other options to fill a leadoff role that nobody else seems comfortable embracing. Christian Arroyo started a handful of games at the top of the order before he joined Hernandez on the IL with a hand injury.

Michael Chavis has been given opportunities in recent games despite that his free-swinging approach isn’t suited for the role. Striking out a ton without drawing a walk all season is a poor combination for a leadoff hitter. Chavis might see his role reduced with Hernandez capable of filling in at second base and his roster spot will be in jeopardy once Arroyo is ready. Arroyo has joined the WooSox and plans to take batting practice today, so his return could be imminent.

The Red Sox enter this series at the top of the American League East. They have a 1.5 game lead over the Blue Jays but the clubs are tied in the loss column. These teams split a brief two-game series at Fenway Park in their only prior meeting this season. The next three games could potentially shift the momentum in the division race.

Given the importance of this series, Hernandez returning to the lineup couldn’t have come at a better time.