ESPN MLB

CLEVELAND -- Left-hander Zach Jackson, acquired by Cleveland last month in the trade that sent CC Sabathia to Milwaukee, was recalled by the Indians on Wednesday from Triple-A Buffalo.

The Indians also announced that second baseman Josh Barfield and catcher Victor Martinez will start injury rehab assignments at Double-A Akron. Barfield, who had surgery on a finger on his left hand in June, will join the Aeros on Thursday. Martinez, who had right elbow surgery in June, is expected to serve as the designated hitter on Friday.

Jackson takes the roster spot that opened when right-hander Paul Byrd was traded to the Boston Red Sox on Tuesday.

"I'm very excited," said Jackson, who is scheduled to start Thursday night against the Baltimore Orioles. "It is unusual to get an opportunity with a new team in the middle of a season.

"I was shocked by the trade, but it is an honor to be in a deal with such a big-name player. It's good to be wanted."

The 25-year-old Jackson went 3-1 with a 4.05 ERA in four starts and four relief appearances at Buffalo.

Jackson made his major league debut with the Brewers on June 4, 2006, and went 2-2 with a 5.40 ERA over seven starts and one relief appearance for Milwaukee that season. He spent the 2007 season at Triple-A Nashville, going 11-10 with a 4.46 ERA in 28 starts.

He made two relief appearances this season for Milwaukee, compiling a 4.91 ERA and no record.

Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press