The Chicago Cubs' lineup just got a major boost. Star outfielder Seiya Suzuki has been activated from the injured list and is back in the starting lineup for Friday's series opener against the Pittsburgh Pirates at Wrigley Field.

Suzuki, who missed the start of the season with a sprained right knee suffered during the World Baseball Classic, slots right back into the heart of the order, batting fifth and playing right field. His return is a welcome sight for a Cubs offense looking to find its rhythm after a 6-6 start.

Last season, Suzuki was a driving force behind Chicago's playoff push, setting career highs with 32 home runs and 103 RBIs. His power bat was sorely missed, as the team managed just 11 runs over a four-game stretch before breaking out for 15 runs in their last two wins against Tampa Bay.

To make room on the roster, the Cubs designated outfielder Dylan Carlson for assignment. The team also made a bullpen move, placing reliever Phil Maton on the 15-day injured list with right knee tendinitis and recalling right-hander Ethan Roberts from Triple-A.

Suzuki looked sharp in his rehab assignment, hitting .429 in five games at Double-A Knoxville. Now in the final year of his five-year contract, the 31-year-old slugger will look to pick up where he left off and help propel the Cubs' offense as they face division rival Pittsburgh this weekend.