MIAMI -- Jerad Eickhoff is finally back in a Phillies uniform.
The team announced on Monday morning it activated Eickhoff from the 60-day disabled list. Eickhoff opened the season on the DL because of a strained right lat. He later experienced a nerve issue in the fingers on his right hand, an issue that kept him from the mound late last season. But Eickhoff posted a 2.55 ERA in six rehab starts in August without incident, allowing him to rejoin the team.
Eickhoff will pitch out of the Phillies' bullpen during the final month of the season, although it is not out of the question he could start a game or two, if needed.
Ben Lively was designated for assignment to make room for Eickhoff on the 40-man roster. Lively went 0-2 with a 6.85 ERA in five starts early this year. He had a 4.26 ERA in 15 starts last season.
Lively is the latest former pitching prospect to leave the team. Right-handers Jake Thompson and Mark Leiter were previously designated for assignment. Thompson was traded to the Brewers. The Blue Jays claimed Leiter off waivers.

The Phillies recently DFA'd infielder Jesmuel Valentin, as well.
When a player's contract is designated for assignment -- often abbreviated "DFA" -- that player is immediately removed from his club's 40-man roster, and 25-man roster if he was on that as well. Within seven days of the transaction (it was previously 10 days), the player must either be traded, released or placed on irrevocable outright waivers.