Rivera activated from DL; Briceno optioned

Rivera's solo home run SAN DIEGO -- Rene Rivera's first career stint on the disabled list has finally come to an end, as the Angels activated the 35-year-old veteran catcher on Wednesday and started him behind the plate for their series finale against the Padres at Petco Park.

To clear a roster spot for Rivera, the Angels optioned rookie Jose Briceno to Triple-A Salt Lake. Right-hander Akeel Morris was designated for assignment to create a vacancy on the 40-man roster.

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Rivera hasn't played for the Angels since May 16, missing 76 games after undergoing surgery to repair a torn meniscus in his right knee. Rivera was originally signed to back up Martin Maldonado, but he…