Gomez returns to Phils' bullpen

PHILADELPHIA -- The former closer is back.
No, not Jonathan Papelbon or Brad Lidge or Jose Mesa. The Phillies activated right-hander Jeanmar Gómez from the 10-day disabled list before Thursday afternoon's series finale against the Rockies at Citizens Bank Park. Gomez opened the season as the Phillies' closer, but lost his job after just two appearances. He then landed on the DL on May 6 because of a right elbow impingement.
He pitched a scoreless 11th inning in Thursday's 2-1 victory over the Rockies to earn the win.
Before Thursday's game, Gomez went 2-1 with a 7.94 ERA in nine appearances. He allowed 15 hits, 11 runs, five walks and four home runs in just 11 1/3 innings. He struck out 11.
Gomez figures to be a middle reliever the rest of the season, despite continued struggles from the Phillies' bullpen. It entered the game with a 4.59 ERA, which ranked 23rd in baseball.
Like old times
Third baseman Maikel Franco started for the first time since Monday. He hit fourth. Phillies manager Pete Mackanin benched Franco the past two games because of his offensive struggles. Mackanin also hit Michael Saunders fifth. He had hit eighth this week because of his struggles.