Braves recall Kelly Johnson from minors

ATLANTA -- Kelly Johnson is back on the Atlanta Braves' active roster, although he returned as a backup instead of a starter.

Johnson was recalled from Triple-A Gwinnett before Thursday's game against San Francisco. The Braves optioned infielder Brooks Conrad to Gwinnett.

Johnson started 57 games at second base in the first half of the season before going on the disabled list July 3 with right wrist tendinitis. Even before the injury, Johnson was losing playing time to Martin Prado, who is hitting .323 and started on Thursday.

Manager Bobby Cox has credited Prado with being a spark to the team's hot streak. The Braves had won 10 of their last 13 entering Thursday's game.

Johnson was hitting only .214 when he was placed on the disabled list.