CHICAGO (AP) — The Seattle Mariners have activated left-hander James Paxton following a stint on the 15-day disabled list with a bruised elbow.

Paxton was scheduled to start Thursday night's game at the Chicago White Sox, his first appearance since he took a line drive off his left elbow Aug. 7.

The Mariners opened a roster spot by designating left-hander Wade LeBlanc for assignment.

Paxton is 4-5 with a 3.53 ERA in 13 starts this season for Seattle, which entered the day three games out of the final AL wild-card spot.

The Mariners acquired the 32-year-old LeBlanc from Toronto in June. He had a 4.50 ERA in 11 games with Seattle, including eight starts.

Seattle also recalled infielder Mike Freeman from Triple-A Tacoma and optioned right-hander Tony Zych to the minor league club. Freeman provides depth with third baseman Kyle Seager sitting out a second straight game Thursday with a bruised right foot.

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