Ramos returns from bereavement leave, Severino optioned

By Mark Zuckerman

Nationals

May 01, 2016, 9:47am

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ST. LOUIS - Wilson Ramos rejoined the Nationals this morning and was activated off the bereavement list, making the veteran catcher eligible to play in today's series finale against the Cardinals.

Ramos had been away from the team five days following the death of his grandfather, Jesus Campos, missing the Nats' entire series against the Phillies and then this weekend's first two games in St. Louis.

It wasn't immediately clear whether Ramos would be activated today or not, but he emerged from the dugout shortly after 11 a.m. CDT and joined his teammates for batting practice. Jose Lobaton still will start behind the plate as originally planned, but Ramos is active and eligible to come off the bench if needed.

Teammates and coaches embraced Ramos upon seeing him for the first time on the field. He's expected to speak to reporters after the game.

Thank you so much for all the support you have offered to my family and me during this difficult time.I appreciate your thoughts and prayers
-- Wilson Abrahan Ramos (@WRamosC3) April 30, 2016

The Nationals will gladly welcome Ramos and his .316 batting average back to their lineup. He is one of only three position players on the roster (along with Bryce Harper and Daniel Murphy) currently hitting better than .242.

With Ramos back on the active roster, fellow catcher Pedro Severino was optioned back to Triple-A Syracuse. Severino started one game during his five days in the big leagues, going 0-for-2 with a strikeout.