Bronx, NY -- (Sports Network) - The Boston Red Sox activated righty Mike Timlin from the 15-day disabled list in time for Thursday's 7-0 rout against the club's bitter rival, the New York Yankees. Timlin did not pitch in the game, though.

Timlin was placed on the DL on June 21, retroactive to June 17, with left knee tendonitis. Timlin is 3-3 with a 7.06 earned run average in 24 games this season for Boston.

To make room for Timlin, the Red Sox optioned pitcher Chris Smith to Triple-A Pawtucket. Smith has pitched to a 2.84 ERA in three games for Boston since being recalled on June 17.