Blue Jays activate star catcher Alejandro Kirk before series with Yankees

NEW YORK — The Blue Jays have activated star catcher Alejandro Kirk from the 60-day injured list and made him available for Friday’s opener of Toronto’s three-game series against the Yankees in New York.

Kirk had been out since April 3 with a fractured left thumb that required surgery.

In a corresponding move, the Jays designated backup catcher Tyler Heineman for assignment. He became the odd man out behind the plate due to the play of rookie Brandon Valenzuela.

Toronto also announced that utility player Davis Schneider has been recalled from Triple-A Buffalo, while outfielder Daulton Varsho has been placed on the 10-day injured list retroactive to Wednesday with left wrist inflammation.