BoSox activate Mendoza

Boston — The Boston Red Sox activated right-hander Ramiro Mendoza on Thursday from the 15-day disabled list. Third baseman Kevin Youkilis was optioned to Triple-A Pawtucket to make room on the roster.

Mets’ Erickson to start

New York — The Mets are leaning toward calling up right-hander Scott Erickson to start Friday night against Philadelphia. It would be Erickson’s first major league appearance since Aug. 31, 2002, with Baltimore.

Mariners cut Olerud

Seattle — Slumping first baseman John Olerud became the latest high-priced player to leave the Mariners when they designated him for assignment Thursday. The Mariners did the same with catcher Pat Borders.