A.J. is Back! Olivo Optioned To Albuquerque

A.J. is back! Have no fear Dodger fans, but A.J. Ellis has returned to the Dodger lineup. He’ll be starting behind the plate, and batting eighth. The Dodgers activated the veteran backstop before Wednesday afternoon’s game against the Marlins at Dodger Stadium.

Los Angeles Dodgers catcher A.J. Ellis (17) hands the ball to starting pitcher

Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports

A.J. had gone under the knife to repair a torn Meniscus in his left knee. A.J. had been on the disabled list since April 7th, having the surgery on April 8th. It is wonderful to have him back in the lineup. A.J.  is the Dodger’s veteran catcher who rode to the rescue to capture the starting catching job and the hearts of Dodger fans. A.J.’s hard work ethic and clutch hitting has propelled him to internet folk-lore hero status. A.J. is beloved by all fans. A.J. has played in just seven games this year, and is hitting .167 (4 for 24) in 29 plate appearances. Last season A.J. batted .238 with ten home runs, 52 RBI in 115 games.

So to clear room for A.J. the Dodgers Optioned veteran backstop Miguel Olivo back to Albuquerque. Olivo was called up to give the Dodgers some pop at the catcher position, but he has struggled. So it was not surprising the ban hammer came down upon him. Olivo was batting just .217 (5 for 23) in eight games and 25 plate appearances. This may not be the last we see of Olivo, Who I am sure will be called back up when rosters expand in September or if there is another injury to the catching corp.

Welcome back A.J.!