The Chicago Cubs expect to have a familiar face return to their lineup on Friday afternoon when they open their final regular-season series against the visiting St. Louis Cardinals.

All-Star right fielder Kyle Tucker likely will be activated from the 10-day injured list after being sidelined since Sept. 3 due to a strained left calf.

Tucker's comeback could provide the emotional lift needed to help the Cubs (89-70) in their bid to clinch home-field advantage for their upcoming National League wild-card series against the San Diego Padres.

Chicago holds a two-game lead over San Diego (87-72), which enters its final regular-season series vs. the visiting Arizona Diamondbacks on Friday.

Tucker likely will serve as the designated hitter on Friday as a means to prevent him from aggravating

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