KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- The Athletics activated left-hander Jeffrey Springs, who had been out with an injured right hip, from the 15-day injured list and started him in Wednesday night's game at Kansas City.
Springs gave up five hits and two runs in 5 2/3 innings, leaving the game with a 5-2 lead over the Royals. Kansas City rallied to win 9-7.
Springs is 3-11 with a 6.02 ERA this season, with 89 strikeouts in 113 2/3 innings. He has given up 29 home runs, highest in the American League.
Right-hander Seth Johnson was optioned to Triple-A Las Vegas to make room on the roster.