Cleveland Guardians third baseman José Ramírez was activated from the injured list on Wednesday, returning after a five-week absence due to left-hand surgery. The seven-time All-Star had been sidelined since June 13, undergoing an operation to remove the hamate bone in his left hand.

Ramírez's return provides a significant boost to the Guardians as they defend their AL Central title. The team managed a 15-15 record in his absence, remaining in contention for first place, tied with the Chicago White Sox entering Wednesday's game against Minnesota. Ramírez is in the starting lineup, batting second and playing third base.

This marks the second time Ramírez has dealt with a hamate bone injury, having had a similar procedure on his right hand in 2019. To accommodate his return, outfielder Kahlil Watson was optioned to Triple-A Columbus. Before his injury, the 33-year-old Ramírez was hitting .239 with 10 home runs and 33 RBI in 72 games.