Boston, MA -- (Sports Network) - Boston Red Sox pitcher Jon Lester is almost back in the starting lineup after recovering from lymphoma surgery as the team activated him from the 15-day disabled list and optioned him to Triple-A Pawtucket on Monday.

Lester had spent the entire 2007 season on the DL and had been on his second rehab assignment with Pawtucket since May 19. He started his rehab in Single-A Greenville and made three starts there before heading to Pawtucket on April 27, but he experienced muscle cramping in his left forearm on May 2 and was recalled from the rehab assignment.

The 23-year-old was diagnosed with a form of anaplastic large cell lymphoma last season, his first in the majors, and had treatment for the condition in the off-season.

Lester had compiled a 7-2 record with a 4.76 ERA in 15 starts with the Red Sox in 2006 after being promoted from Pawtucket on June 10. The No. 1 prospect in the organization and Boston's first pick of the 2002 draft, Lester became the first Red Sox rookie left-handed pitcher in club history to win his first five decisions.