ST. PETERSBURG -- Kevin Kiermaier rejoined the Rays' starting lineup Monday after a two-day absence, but Tampa Bay is going to be cautious with its Gold Glove Award-winning center fielder.
The outfielder lasted less than three innings against the Rangers on Friday before departing with hip soreness. Manager Kevin Cash said Kiermaier's hip was sore before that game and listed him as day to day. Kiermaier returned to the field for the final two innings Sunday.
"It's gotten better," Cash said. "He was pretty adamant about wanting to get out there and play today. He understands how much we value him and need him out there; we're excited to have him back.