Diamondbacks activate struggling catcher Alex Avila from disabled list

(Photo: Patrick Breen/azcentral sports)Avila, who was signed to a two-year deal in January to take over as the Diamondbacks’ starting catcher this season, has struggled to the tune of a .124 batting average to go along with 54 strikeouts in 45 games.

To make matters worse, Avila went on the 10-day disabled list on June 27 with a strained right hamstring.

After 10 days on the shelf, Avila was activated and placed into the team’s starting lineup for Saturday’s game against the San Diego Padres. Right-hander Silvino Bracho was optioned to Triple-A Reno in a corresponding move.

“We’re really excited for Alex,” Diamondbacks manager Torey Lovullo said before Saturday’s game. “He’s worked very hard…