Cubs' Soriano to return Thursday

Apr 30, 2008 - 9:22 PM CHICAGO (Ticker) -- With the pain in his left calf gone, Chicago Cubs left fielder Alfonso Soriano will return to the lineup Thursday.

Soriano has been on the 15-day disabled list since April 16 with a right calf sprain. But he pronounced himself fit to return after passing all tests on Tuesday.

"Everything looks good for Thursday," said Soriano, who is in the second of an eight-year contract with the Cubs.

Prior to the injury, Soriano had gotten off to a slow start, batting just .175 with a .230 on-base percentage.

However, Cubs manager Lou Piniella is eager to get back Soriano and will bat him in his customary leadoff spot in the lineup.

"Soriano gives us some power," Piniella said. "He can put runs on the board with one swing of the bat, that's what he brings. He brings speed to the equation. Plus, he has fun when he plays; it's a little infectious for us."

According to Piniella, Soriano has been swinging well in batting practice.

"The ball is jumping off his bat, and he's hitting the ball to all fields," Piniella said. "He can carry you when he's hitting the ball the way he can."

The Cubs have posted an 8-5 record without Soriano, although they have lost four of their last five games.