Claiborne back up in up-and-down season

NEW YORK -- After getting called up and sent down five times over a 10-day period in August, Preston Claiborne looks to be back with the Yankees for good this season.

The reliever was optioned on Aug. 16 to make room for infielder Mark Reynolds, recalled on Aug. 20 to be the team's 26th man during a doubleheader against the Blue Jays and optioned again after the game. He was then called up on Aug. 22 after infielder Jayson Nix went on the disabled list with a broken hand, but he was sent down again when shortstop Derek Jeter returned from the DL on Aug. 25.

Normally, teams have to wait at least 10 days to recall a player optioned to the Minor Leagues. But because Class A Tampa's season ended on Sunday, the Yankees were able to bring Claiborne back to the Bronx on Monday.

And with the ability to have expanded rosters in September -- the Yankees currently have 31 players on the active roster, 11 of which are relievers -- there likely won't be reason to option Claiborne again.

The rookie has a 2.78 ERA and 36 strikeouts over 37 appearances this season.