By Mark Sheldon

Seeking to stay in the playoff race, the Reds need all of the help they can get right now. One of the key players they’ve been missing during the second half returned on Monday when second baseman Brandon Phillips was activated from the disabled list before Monday night’s 6-5 series-opening loss to the Cardinals.

He played three games in a Minor League rehab assignment. On Sunday for Class A Dayton, he was 2-for-3 and was hit by a pitch.

READ: IMPRESSIVE IN DAYTON

“He looks good. Our reports from our Minor League managers and staff have been very positive,” Reds manager Bryan Price said. “We also realize six weeks ago, he had major surgery on his hand. He’ll have a brace that will hopefully prevent the thumb from bending back.”

Phillips had been on the DL since having July 11 surgery to repair torn ligaments in his left thumb. He was injured trying to make a diving catch.


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“I think the expectations are he will compete and have competitive at-bats,” Price said. “He’ll influence us in a positive way with his energy and his desire to be here and play.”

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