September 4, 2013; Anaheim, CA, USA; Tampa Bay Rays starting pitcher Jeremy Hellickson (58) pitches during the first inning against the Los Angeles Angels at Angel Stadium of Anaheim. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
Jeremy Hellickson is back.
The Tampa Bay Rays activated the right-hander and he will start Tuesday’s game against the Kansas City Royals at Tropicana Field.
He will take Erik Bedard’s spot in the rotation.
#rays Hellickson will return and start Tuesday. Bedard to the bullpen. Beliveau and Belnome head back to Durham.
— Roger Mooney (@RogerMooney50) July 7, 2014
Hellickson has missed all of the season so far after having elbow surgery in January.
The 27-year-old made six minor league starts as part of his rehab assignment, one at AA and five at AAA.
Over the six starts he struggled however, going 1-4 with a 6.23 ERA in 21.2 innings. He gave up 40 hits and struck out just 18 batters but walked only six.
Hellickson was supposed to be a major part of the Rays rotation this year, as he has been throughout his career, but his injury threw a wrench into the Rays plans.
Over four years in the majors, Hellickson is 39-31 with a 3.70 ERA in 102 games, 95 of which are starts.