Giants activate OF Hunter Pence

The strugglingSan Francisco Giants activated Hunter Pence from the 15-day disabled list Saturday, two months after the right fielder suffered a serious hamstring injury.

Pence returned from his minor league rehab assignment Friday night and was in the lineup Saturday against the Washington Nationals, batting fifth and starting in right field.

Pence tore his right hamstring off the bone while running the bases on June 1 and underwent surgery the following week. The Giants went 26-22 during Pence's absence but have struggled lately, losing 11 of 13 games since the All-Star break.

Pence told reporters that he was looking forward to providing a boost to the Giants (59-44), who entered Saturday with a one-game lead over the Los Angeles Dodgers (58-45) in the National League West.

"I play the game with a lot of emotion and a lot of energy," he said Friday. "Hopefully I can pour much of that vibe out on the field and give them a little boost, so I intend to come ready to help."

Pence, 33, has appeared in 50 games for the Giants this season, batting .298 with seven home runs and 36 RBIs.

To make room for Pence on the active roster, the Giants designated infielder Ramiro Pena for assignment.