Blue Jays all-star shortstop Jose Reyes resumes baseball activity

TORONTO – Jose Reyes resumed baseball activity on Friday head of the Blue Jays series opener with the Boston Red Sox.

An MRI on Thursday revealed the 31-year-old’s cracked rib and oblique strain are progressing well.

“It’s healing up so he’s going to start baseball activity today,” said Blue Jays manager John Gibbons. “He’ll go out there with the team, stretch, take some ground balls and he’s going to hit a little bit off the tee. Good news yesterday.”

Reyes, who was placed on the 15-day disabled list on April 27, isn’t eligible to return to the active lineup until early next week. As a result, the shortstop could be headed for a rehab assignment.

Gibbons said he had not had a conversation with Alex Anthopoulos, but that he would expect a rehab assignment for Reyes.

Reyes was hitting .250 with three doubles and seven RBI in 16 games prior to being placed on the disabled list.

Earlier Friday, Toronto optioned reliever Chad Jenkins to triple- A Buffalo and recalled right-handed pitcher Ryan Tepera to take his place.

The 27-year-old Tepera has made eight relief appearances for Buffalo this season posting a 1-1 record and a 0.57 earned-run average.

Jenkins had a 4.50 ERA in just two innings pitched for Toronto, striking out two.