Marlins activate INF Walker from injured list

The Miami Marlins reinstated infielder Neil Walker from the injured list Tuesday after the veteran missed the first 3 1/2 weeks of June with a right quadriceps strain. To make room on the active roster, the Marlins optioned right-hander Jeff Brigham to Triple-A New Orleans.

Walker was batting .295 with four home runs and 14 RBIs in 51 games before being injured on May 30. Primarily a second baseman throughout his 11-year career, Walker has played only at first base this season. He has 34 starts at first base and two as the designated hitter. Walker, 33, is a career .269 hitter with 145 home runs and 582 RBIs. Brigham had a 5.87 ERA over six appearances this season, all in relief.