The Atlanta Braves activated All-Star right-hander Reynaldo Lopez from the 15-day injured list and slated him to start Saturday night against the visiting Kansas City Royals.
Lopez, selected to his first All-Star Game this season, went on the IL on Sept. 11 because of right shoulder inflammation.
His return comes with the Braves (87-71) battling with the New York Mets (87-71) and Arizona Diamondbacks (88-72) for the two remaining National League wild-card berths. The San Diego Padres (92-68) have clinched the other spot.
The Braves have four games remaining entering Saturday, including a home doubleheader with the Mets on Monday of games postponed from Wednesday and Thursday by the approach of Hurricane Helene.