The Cubs also got good news regarding third baseman Mike Olt, who was to begin a rehab assignment Friday with Double-A Tennessee. Olt has been on the DL since April 15 because of a hairline fracture in his right wrist.
Olt's absence created an opening for rookie Kris Bryant, who was riding a 14-game hitting streak entering Friday's game against the Twins. Where Olt fits in the Cubs' plans is to be determined.
The Cubs do need reliever Neil Ramirez. The right-hander, on the DL since April 16 with inflammation in his shoulder, had a good outing for Tennessee on Wednesday, retiring all three batters he faced.