Marlins place Dee Gordon on DL, reinstate Martin Prado

The Miami Marlins placed All-Star second baseman Dee Gordon on the disabled list, while reinstating third baseman Martin Prado on Friday morning to open the second half.

Both Gordon, who dislocated his left thumb last Saturday sliding headfirst into first base for an infield hit, and the Marlins were optimistic he could avoid a DL stint. He leads the majors with 122 hits, ranks second with 33 stolen bases and fifth with a .338 average in 84 games played.

Despite being unable to participate, Gordon attended All-Star festivities in Cincinnati because he was voted in as a starter for the first time by the fans and wanted to represent the organization. Fellow All-Star starter Giancarlo Stanton (left hamate fracture) did not go.

Prado, meanwhile, returns from a right shoulder sprain that had sidelined him since June 15 when he tumbled onto it running out a grounder. Over three rehab outings with Single-A Jupiter, he went 3 for 10 at the plate. His shoulder bothered him most when trying to throw across the diamond as he built back his strength. The 31-year-old infielder is batting .272 with 11 doubles, one triple, four homers and 24 RBI. He has reached base safely in 54 of his 63 games played.

Miami could utilize Prado, a 2010 National League All-Star at second base, in Gordon's place should the club keep Casey McGehee at third. McGehee is 4 for 10 with four RBI since joining the Marlins last week.

Other options at those positions include Donovan Solano, Derek Dietrich and Miguel Rojas. Christian Yelich, last year's leadoff batter, will likely take over that spot with Gordon out.

The Marlins penciled in shortstop Adeiny Hechavarria in the leadoff spot for Friday's opener against the Philadelphia Phillies. Prado was scheduled to start at second and hit second, with McGehee at the hot corner in the cleanup spot.

You can follow Christina De Nicola on Twitter @CDeNicola13 or email her at cdenicola13@gmail.com.