Jason Heyward returns to starting lineup for Cubs

ST. LOUIS -- Chicago Cubs right fielder Jason Heyward is in the starting lineup for the first time since leaving Friday's game against the San Francisco Giants after making a diving catch and then sliding into the wall at AT&T Park.

Heyward, who will bat second against the St. Louis Cardinals on Tuesday, made a quick recovery from a contusion on his right side, which could have been a lot worse. Heyward had an MRI over the weekend, revealing no more than a bruise.

"We dodged a bullet," general manager Jed Hoyer said Monday.

Heyward indicated he was feeling better Monday and took batting practice both indoors and outside before manager Joe Maddon declared him ready to go. The Cubs went 1-3 in his absence, including Friday's game which he left in the first inning. He admitted the catch off the bat of Denard Span was one of the best he has ever made.