He’s baaack! Gagne returns

Los Angeles closer Eric Gagne was activated from the disabled list Saturday night and was available to pitch against the Atlanta Braves after he appealed his two-game suspension for heckling an umpire.

Gagne missed Los Angeles’ first 35 games because of a sprained right elbow, the one he had surgically repaired in 1997.

The right-hander, who owns the major league record of 84 consecutive saves, landed on the D.L. for the first time in his seven-year major league career when he hurt his elbow while compensating for a knee injury sustained during spring training.

On April 6 at San Francisco, the three-time All-Star was ejected by umpire Bill Hohn for complaining from the dugout about balls and strikes. Gagne was given a two-game suspension 23 days later, pending his return to the 25-man roster.

In three rehab appearances with Triple-A Las Vegas, Gagne retired all 12 batters he faced and struck out seven.

Sheets makes progress

Ben Sheets is making a slow but steady recovery from an inner ear infection that has sidelined him since April 21, but his return to Milwaukee’s rotation remains uncertain.

Sheets threw again Friday, two days after a 65-pitch session in Milwaukee, and took part in fielding practice Saturday in Pittsburgh. He can throw without any problem, but still gets dizzy when he turns rapidly to the left.

Nats trade for Byrd

The Washington Nationals acquired Marlon Byrd from the Philadelphia Phillies for Endy Chavez in a swap of center fielders.

“ New York Yankees designated hitter Ruben Sierra is expected to play in an extended spring training game Monday, his first since being sidelined by a partially torn right biceps.

“ Tampa Bay Devil Rays right-hander Rob Bell was placed on the 15-day disabled list because of “personal and psychological issues.” The club recalled right-hander Seth McClung from Triple-A Durham.

Associated Press