Cubs news: Willson Contreras suspended, Addison Russell activated from DL

Major League Baseball Saturday suspended Willson Contreras for two games for his actions during Friday's game against the Cardinals. Contreras has appealed, so for the time being he'll remain active. John Lackey was fined for his part in Friday's kerfuffle.

Other news:

Javier Baez has done an admirable job filling in at shortstop for Addison Russell, who’s been out since August 4 with what was eventually described as plantar fasciitis, a very painful condition of the bottom of the foot.

Now Russell’s re-joining the active roster:

Russell had a rough start to his season, but he had just started to hit consistently when he went on the DL. From the All-Star break through August 4: .306/.338/.565 (19-for-62) with seven doubles and three home runs in 18 games.

It’s unlikely that Russell will get back in the starting lineup every day. With no chance at a rehab assignment with the minor-league season over, Russell might wind up pinch-hitting to begin, or perhaps start a couple of games a week to get him back up to speed after this injury.

The activation of Russell leaves just Jake Arrieta as the only remaining injured Cub. With expanded rosters, Arrieta was not placed on the disabled list, so there are no Cubs currently on the DL. Glad to see Russell back, and hopefully Arrieta returns to action soon.