SEATTLE -- The Seattle Mariners activated shortstop Alex Rodriguez for Monday night's game against Oakland, more than two weeks after he injured his knee.

	Rodriguez

Rodriguez did not start against the A's, but the team said he would he available to pinch hit. His status for the game Tuesday will be decided later.

Rodriguez was hurt July 8 when he collided with the Dodgers' Alex Cora while trying to break up a double play at second base. He also suffered a concussion.

Mariners manager Lou Piniella said Rodriguez fielded ground balls in practice Monday, ran the bases and took a lot of batting practice.

To make room for Rodriguez, the Mariners sent infielder Charles Gipson to Triple-A Tacoma. Gipson hit .292 (7-for-24) with five runs scored for Seattle.

Rodriguez suffered a Grade II sprain of the MCL and a concussion while trying to break up a double play in the fifth inning of a 3-2, 11-inning loss to the Dodgers. He slid high and awkwardly into second base, and Cora, playing shortstop, tried to leap over him. But Cora's knee hit Rodriguez in the face and Rodriguez crumpled to the ground, where he was motionless for several minutes.

After a lengthy delay, Rodriguez got to his feet and walked off under his own power. But he did not travel to Atlanta for the All-Star Game, in which he was elected the American League's starting shortstop.