Dodgers option Micah Johnson to Triple-A Oklahoma City

LOS ANGELES -- The Dodgers on Monday optioned Micah Johnson back to Triple-A Oklahoma City after spending two games with the club in San Francisco.

Johnson was called up Saturday when outfielder Carl Crawford was placed on the disabled list with lower back tightness. Johnson in his professional career had only played second base until Friday, when he played nine innings in left field, just in case he was needed in the outfield in the majors.

He played in both games over the weekend, including two innings at second base on Saturday. Not bad for not even arriving at AT&T Park until the seventh inning. Johnson was 0-for-3 in the two games.

This move clears one roster spot with a pair of rehab assignments completed on Sunday, as both Howie Kendrick and Yasmani Grandal are expected to be activated for Tuesday's home opener.

The other move is likely reliant on the health of Scott Van Slyke's back, after the slugger left Saturday's game after three innings with back tightness. If Van Slyke is ready to go, then Austin Barnes is the likely other candidate to be sent out unless the club is intent on carrying three catchers.