Rockies activate Sugano to start against Reds

The Colorado Rockies activated right-hander Tomoyuki Sugano from the 15-day injured list on Saturday to start against the Cincinnati Reds. Sugano had been placed on the injured list earlier this month with back spasms and a fingernail issue. It was the first time the 36-year-old had gone on the injured list during his Major League Baseball career.

Sugano's season Sugano is 8-4 with a 4.80 ERA in his first season with the Rockies. He previously spent one season with another team after playing for the Yomiuri Giants. Sugano faced the Reds on April 29 and earned the win, throwing 5 1/3 scoreless innings. He is 3-0 over three starts against NL Central teams this season with a 2.20 ERA.

Manager's comments and roster move "I think we'll see vintage Tomo Sugano today," Rockies manager Warren Schaeffer said before the game. "Just looking for more of the same out of Tomo - a professional start, give us a chance to win." The Rockies also placed right-handed pitcher Jeff Criswell on the 15-day injured list with a strained right shoulder.