The Baltimore Orioles activated catcher Samuel Basallo from the injured list before Wednesday night's game against the New York Yankees. Basallo hasn't played since July 19 due to a shoulder injury. During his absence, the Orioles went 12-14 but remained in the postseason race, trailing the final wild card by just one game.

While Basallo was out, Baltimore traded Adley Rutschman, the team's other main catcher. This move solidified Basallo's status as the No. 1 catcher going forward, although the Orioles acquired Carlos Narváez in that deal. Narváez started at catcher Wednesday, with Basallo playing first base and Pete Alonso at designated hitter.

Manager Craig Albernaz praised Basallo's return, saying, "It's nice writing Sammy's name in the lineup. Missed him." He added that Basallo handled his rehab like a pro and is in excellent physical condition.

The 21-year-old Basallo is hitting .241 with 16 home runs and 46 RBIs this season. To make room on the roster, the Orioles optioned utilityman Jeremiah Jackson to Triple-A Norfolk.