Twins Activate Lewis, Castro for Orioles Series

The Minnesota Twins have activated infielders Royce Lewis and Willi Castro from the injured list ahead of their series against the Baltimore Orioles, seeking to strengthen a struggling lineup. Lewis, who missed the start of the season with a hamstring strain, completed a six-game rehab assignment at Triple-A St. Paul and is set to make his season debut at third base; he hit 16 home runs with 47 RBIs in 82 games last year. Castro, back from an oblique strain and returning without a rehab assignment, was batting .227 with six doubles and a home run in 18 games prior to his injury and will serve in a utility role. To make roster space, the team optioned Edouard Julien and Mickey Gasper to Triple-A. Team officials hope the return of Lewis and Castro will provide a much-needed spark for an offense that ranks among the league’s lowest in home runs. Both players are expected to contribute immediately as the Twins aim to improve their season record.