CLEVELAND (AP) — The Indians got back one of their key missing pieces Saturday, activating catcher Roberto PĂ©rez from the injured list. A two-time Gold Glove winner, PĂ©rez has been out since undergoing surgery on his right index finger in May. PĂ©rez initially got hurt when he got crossed up on a pitch from reliever James Karnichak in an April 13 game in Chicago. PĂ©rez continued to play with the injury, but it wasn't healing and he needed an operation. He's batting just .131 in 61 at-bats, but the 32-year-old is invaluable defensively and in handling Cleveland's staff. PĂ©rez was active for Saturday night's game against the Astros and was set to catch Sunday. With PĂ©rez coming back, the Indians designated backup catcher RenĂ© Rivera for assignment. The 37-year-old Rivera did a nice job filling in for Austin Hedges, who will move into his usual role behind PĂ©rez. The Indians have been ravaged by injuries all season, and they're beginning to take a toll. Cleveland had lost six of seven when PĂ©rez rejoined the team. Cleveland is still missing its top three pitchers — Shane Bieber (shoulder), Aaron Civale (finger strain) and Zach Plesac (broken thumb). Slugger Franmil Reyes returned to the lineup Friday after missing six weeks with a strained oblique. Also on Friday, the Indians were also without their best player, third baseman JosĂ© RamĂrez (sore elbow) and outfielder Eddie Rosario (abdominal tightness). Their injuries are not serious. Manager Terry Francona said RamĂrez is improved, but he'll rest at least one more day. ___ More AP MLB: https://apnews.com/hub/mlb and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports |