Nelson Cruz rejoins Texas Rangers roster Monday for the play-in game against the Tampa Bay Rays for the right to advance to the postseason in the wild card matchup.

Nelson Cruz is eligible to play Monday because the suspension he served was only for the remainder of the regular season. The Texas Rangers didn't originally comment on whether the slugger would rejoin the roster now that the suspension is over.

"We're playing really good baseball, and the guys are excited," Nelson Cruz told reporters after it was announced that he'd rejoin the Texas Rangers for their playoff-run. "I'm excited and I'm happy to be back and be with my teammates and play the game that I love."

Cruz left the team 50 games ago for his violation of the Basic Agreement and its Joint Drug Prevention and Treatment program. Rangers management announced Sunday that Cruz would be reactivated and rejoin the team immediately.

"It feels special to be back," Cruz said. "It shows they believe in me. I have been working every day to make sure I am ready. I want to play. I want to be a part of this team and help them win championships."

Cruz has not played in a regular-season game since Aug. 4. He was hitting .269 with 27 home runs, 76 RBIs and a .511 slugging percentage at the time he was suspended. His bat will add depth to a lineup that is on a little hot-streak, especially swinging the bat.

The Rangers have seven games in row, scoring 44 runs in those seven games. Texas might like to have Cruz back in the lineup because of his numbers against David Price, the starter Monday for the Tampa Bay Rays.

In 12 at bats, Cruz has six hits, two homeruns and two walks. He only struck out once against the lefty.