Carlos Tocci activated, Hanser Alberto optioned

Texas Rangers transactions: Carlos Tocci has been activated from the 10 day disabled list today, the Texas Rangers announced. To make room for him on the active roster, the Rangers have optioned infielder Hanser Alberto to AAA Round Rock.

Tocci is a Rule 5 selection from the Philadelphia Phillies, and as such cannot be optioned to the minors. The Rangers have to keep him on the major league roster all season in order to retain him, and with his rehab assignment ending today, the Rangers either had to add him to the active roster, waive him, or designate him for assignment (which would give the team seven days to waive or trade him).

Texas appears to believe that Tocci, who is considered a plus defensive outfielder and gives the team a legitimate backup center fielder, but who is generally considered to be overmatched at the plate at the major league level, offers enough upside and value that he is worth continuing to carry on the 40 man roster. Thus, he is back on the team as part of the three man bench, while Alberto returns to AAA Round Rock.

In addition, the team announced that Eliezer Alvarez, who was designated for assignment when the Rangers activated Ricky Rodriguez from the 60 day disabled list, cleared waivers and has been outrighted to AA Frisco.