Kris Bryant returns to Cubs lineup in penultimate game originally appeared on NBC Sports Chicago
Cubs third baseman Kris Bryant is back in the starting lineup Saturday against the White Sox.
Bryant, who's hitting fifth and playing third base, exited Monday's game against the Pirates in the second inning with lower right oblique tightness.
Bryant's return gives him two games worth of at-bats to face live pitching before the postseason. The Cubs, who can clinch the division with a win Saturday, will play their first playoff game next Wednesday.
Manager David Ross said Friday Bryant took swings in the batting cage and felt good, later taking ground balls. Ross reported optimism over that development but noted Bryant's status for the weekend remained undecided.
"I need him to be healthy before I can make a decision," Ross said Friday,
RELATED: Ripping Cubs’ Kris Bryant for injuries, bad COVID season dumb and dumber
Bryant, who's also dealt with ailments to his left wrist and ring finger, back and left elbow, is hitting .195 with a .583 OPS in 32 games this season.
Here's the rest of Saturday's lineup, against Sox rookie Dane Dunning:
