Athletics' Zobrist returns to lineup vs. Astros

Ben Zobrist will start at designated hitter for the Oakland Athletics in Friday's series opener against the Houston Astros at O.co Coliseum, his first start since hurting his knee while sliding last weekend.

The 33-year-old battled cartilage problems in his knee earlier in his career and admitted that it was "a little disconcerting" after he was removed from Sunday's game.

Zobrist received a cortisone shot and underwent an MRI after banging his knee, but resumed on-field activities this week following several days of rest. He returned to game action when he pinch-hit in the ninth inning of Thursday's 2-0 loss to the Los Angeles Angels.

The two-time All-Star is hitting .261/.314/.435 (110 OPS+) with one home run and five doubles through his first 13 games with the Athletics.