Dustin Pedroia's injured throwing/autographing thumb has healed. (Associated Press)

The Red Sox have activated second baseman Dustin Pedroia from the disabled list in advance of Thursday night's game against Chicago. Pedroia hasn't played since July 3 because of a sprained right thumb.

Although his overall numbers this season are down (.266/.326/.400), Pedroia was his usual, productive self until he suffered an unrelated injury to his right thumb in late May. The hope for the Sox is that Pedroia, thanks to the time off, will be at full strength going forward.

To make room on the active roster, the Sox have optioned DH Mauro Gomez back to Triple-A Pawtucket, which means that infielder Pedro Ciriaco will remain with the big-league club for the time being.

Gomez's demotion in tandem with the recent injury to David Ortiz may mean that Daniel Nava will serve as the regular DH for the time being.

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