Washington Nationals activate RHP Jonathan Papelbon

The Washington Nationals activated right-handed closer Jonathan Papelbon from the disabled list on Monday.

Papelbon, 35, returns to the Nationals after missing 19 games with a right intercostal strain. The veteran appeared in three rehab games with Class A Potomac on June 27 and Double-A Harrisburg on Friday and Saturday. He threw a scoreless inning each time out, walking one and striking out three in the three innings pitched. He did not allow a hit.

With 365 career saves, Papelbon ranks 10th on the all-time saves list (and third among active players). At the time he was placed on the disabled list on June 14, Papelbon ranked seventh in the National League with 16 saves, and he has converted 23 of 27 save opportunities since joining the Nationals on July 29, 2015. His 16 saves are still good enough for 10th in the NL this season.

The Nationals optioned outfielder Michael Taylor to Triple-A Syracuse to clear room on the 25-man roster.

Taylor, 25, is hitting .225 in 60 games (41 starts). Taylor has 10 doubles and six home runs with 12 RBIs and 10 stolen bases.