Izturis, Rivera return to Angels lineup against Mariners

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Infielder Maicer Izturis and outfielder Juan Rivera returned to the lineup for Friday night’s game against the Seattle Mariners in Safeco Field after sitting out Thursday’s 5-4 win over the Kansas City Royals.

Izturis will start at third base and bat leadoff for the second time in three games. Erick Aybar, who hit leadoff in 53 of the Angels’ first 56 games, was dropped to the ninth spot for the first time this season. Manager Mike Scioscia said he will mix and match Izturis, Aybar and Howie Kendrick in the first two spots in the order, with Aybar and Izturis sharing leadoff duties.

Rivera will start in right field after missing Thursday’s game because of a sore left big toe, an injury he suffered when he fouled a ball off his foot Wednesday night.

The Mariners announced a pitching change for Saturday’s game, with left-hander Ryan Rowland-Smith replacing right-hander Doug Fister, who is experiencing shoulder fatigue.

--Mike DiGiovanna in Seattle