SAN FRANCISCO -- The Giants activated left fielder Nori Aoki from the 15-day disabled list Monday in time for him to return against the Milwaukee Brewers, who made a late scratch of right fielder Ryan Braun because of lower back tightness.
Aoki, who missed 28 games after breaking his right fibula June 20, started in left and batted eighth. Manager Bruce Bochy spoke to him about the club's recent success with Angel Pagan in Aoki's old leadoff spot, also taking some pressure off Aoki's legs.
San Francisco cleared roster room by designating infielder Joaquin Arias for assignment. Bochy called it a "very difficult decision."
Aoki spent time before the game mingling with Brewers near the batting cage and receiving hugs from several old teammates.