Nelson Cruz returns to the Texas Rangers lineup

Aug 4, 2013; Oakland, CA, USA; Texas Rangers outfielder Nelson Cruz (17) warms up in the on deck circle against the Oakland Athletics in the sixth inning at O.Co Coliseum. The Rangers defeated the Athletics 4-0. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports /

The Texas Rangers are going to get a huge lift when they host the Tampa Bay Rays in game #163 Monday night.

On Sunday, Cruz told reporters “I think so” when he was asked if he’d be in the lineup Monday. Apparently, he was right.

According to Todd Willis of ESPN Dallas, outfielder Nelson Cruz will be back in the lineup.

Cruz was suspended for 50 games by Major League Baseball for violating the terms of MLB’s Joint Drug Prevention and Treatment Program.

Outfielder Joey Butler was designated for assignment to make room for Cruz, who will bat sixth in the lineup.

On the season, the 33-year old righty has batted .269, has an on base percentage of .330 and has slugged .511. He has 27 home runs and 76 RBI.

Without Cruz, the Rangers have struggled, blowing their division lead and allowing the Oakland Athletics to claim the AL West and forcing the Rangers to play in what is essentially a play in game to make the play in game.

First pitch between the Rangers and Rays is scheduled for 8:07 pm.

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