"Scott Rolen was back in the Reds' lineup on Thursday, playing third base, batting fifth and feeling better following a viral infection that kept him off the field for four days.

The infection, originally diagnosed as strep throat, was improved enough that Rolen could have played Wednesday, according to Reds manager Dusty Baker, but the doctor said Rolen would be better served to play in the cool breeze of San Francisco than the pressing heat of Cincinnati.

"It's great to have him back," Baker said. "He's doing a lot better.""