Jason Heyward is heading back to the lineup after being out since August 21 with a broken jaw.
The Atlanta Braves outfielder was accidentally struck in the face by Mets pitcher Jon Niese that fractured his jaw. But on Friday, the Braves took Heyward off the disabled list and he’ll be in the lineup against the Cubs on Friday night.
MLB reporter Mark Bowman tweeted:
“Heyward will play five innings or get three at-bats today. He will rest tomorrow. Similar to early days of Spring Training.”
— Mark Bowman (@mlbbowman) September 20, 2013
Just before his injury, Heyward had been batting an impressive .317/.405/.554 with 13 home runs in 95 games. The team will be counting on him as he returns to leadoff hitter and play center field.
Watch the pitch that sidelined Heyward for six weeks in the video below.
