Fowler (shoulder) is back in the lineup for Friday's series opener with the Cubs, batting leadoff and playing center field.

EDGE Analysis

Fowler didn't start the past six games, but after pinch-hitting in three of those contests and most recently tripling home two runs Thursday evening, the Cardinals decided he was good to go back into the lineup at full capacity. He'll join Randal Grichuk and Tommy Pham in the outfield Friday as St. Louis battles Chicago starter Eddie Butler.