The Arizona Diamondbacks officially welcomed Max Kepler back to the major-league roster Thursday after the veteran outfielder completed his 80-game suspension.

Kepler was activated from the restricted list ahead of Arizona's series finale against the St. Louis Cardinals, giving the club another experienced bat as it enters the second half of the season. To create room on the active roster, the Diamondbacks optioned infielder Tim Tawa to Triple-A Reno.

Arizona also made additional roster moves, optioning left-hander Mitch Bratt after his major-league debut and recalling reliever Juan Burgos to reinforce the bullpen. Right-hander Ryne Nelson was transferred to the 60-day Injured List, opening a spot on the club's 40-man roster.

Before rejoining the Diamondbacks, Kepler spent time on a rehabilitation assignment across three levels of the organization's minor-league system.

The veteran appeared in 10 rehab games, collecting 10 hits in 30 at-bats while adding two home runs and six RBIs. His performance provided encouraging signs that he is prepared to contribute immediately after spending much of the season away from major league competition.

Arizona signed Kepler to a one-year contract on June 9, anticipating his return once he became eligible for reinstatement.

Manager Torey Lovullo met with Kepler before Thursday's game to discuss his role and help ease his transition into a team that has already played half of its regular-season schedule.

The Diamondbacks expect Kepler to split his time primarily between left field and designated hitter. Although much of his career has been spent in right field, Arizona already has Corbin Carroll entrenched at that position, making left field the more natural fit.

Kepler also logged significant time in left field during his stint with the Philadelphia Phillies last season, making the transition a familiar one.

Kepler was suspended by Major League Baseball in January after testing positive for Epitrenbolone, a substance prohibited under the league's Joint Drug Prevention and Treatment Program.

While he is now eligible to participate during the remainder of the regular season, the suspension carries one lingering consequence. Should the Diamondbacks qualify for the postseason, Kepler would not be eligible to appear on Arizona's playoff roster.

Despite that restriction, the Diamondbacks are hoping the veteran can provide valuable offensive production over the season's final months. Kepler hit 18 home runs in 127 games with the Phillies last year and now has an opportunity to strengthen Arizona's lineup as the club continues its push through the National League race.

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