Burroughs returns to majors with D-Backs

By Anthony Fenech / MLB.com | 05/18/11

PHOENIX -- After a five-year absence, Sean Burroughs is back in the Major Leagues.

"It's still a surreal feeling," the infielder said after being called up from Triple-A Reno on Wednesday to take the roster spot of third baseman Melvin Mora, who was placed on the bereavement list. "I don't know if I was dreaming when I got the call last night."

Burroughs, a former first-round Draft pick of the San Diego Padres, hit .280 during parts of five seasons with the Padres and Tampa Bay Rays before falling off the baseball map.

"It's been a long journey and I've been through a lot," he said. "But God willing, this organization has given me the opportunity to come back and play Major League Baseball."

In Reno, Burroughs hit .386 with one home run and 15 RBIs in 27 games.

"We thought he was the best guy to fill in," said Gibson. "He's kind of a contact guy, he'll put the bat on the ball and give us some professional at-bats."

Burroughs credits hard work and perseverance with his path back to the Majors and said his mindset has made a 180-degree turn from just a year ago.

"Physically, mentally and spiritually, I'm definitely blessed to be here," he said. "I can tell you where I don't want to be and where I want to be and right now, I think everything's kind of fallen into place."

Mora must stay on the bereavement list for a minimum of three days and must be activated after the maximum of seven. Gibson said there was no timetable for his return.