Mark DeRosa Activated; Giants Option Brandon Belt

The Giants activated utility player Mark DeRosa from the 60 day disabled list today.  To make room for DeRosa on their roster, San Francisco optioned first baseman Brandon Belt back to Triple-A.

A lingering wrist injury sent DeRosa to the DL after he had only played in 18 games for the Giants this season.  It was evident something was wrong with the 36 year old as he only managed a line of .162/.225/.189 before hitting the shelf.

DeRosa provides the Giants with defensive versatility having manned every position other than catcher and center field over the past few years.

While he was able to average more than 20 home runs and 80 RBI’s a season from 2008-09, DeRosa understands that he is now more of a role player and hopes to help out the Giants as they continue their postseason push.

"“People don’t want to hear about my wrist any more. I get that,” he said. “I just want to fly under the radar, come back and be a productive player for the team down the stretch. And I know I can do that.”"

DeRosa is likely to see most of his acting as a right handed platoon partner with first baseman Aubrey Huff.

Belt ended up the roster casualty resulting from DeRosa’s return.  San Francisco wasn’t able to provide their top position prospect with what they felt was enough playing time and ultimately decided it would be better for Belt to see everyday reps at the Triple-A level than rot on a Major League bench.

This will mark Belt’s second stint in the minors this year.  The 23 year old started the season with the Giants but after being sidelined due to injury, the club decided to give him an extended stay in the minors to regain his confidence at the plate.

Belt was able to do just that, posting an OPS of 1.101 over 43 games in Triple-A.  San Fran hopes he can continue that production before likely returning to the team as a September call up.

For more on the Giants, be sure to check out Frisco Fastball.