Chicago Cubs first baseman Anthony Rizzo was in a walking boot just days ago. Yesterday, he needed a motorized scooter to get around the clubhouse.

Rizzo had injured his ankle trying to field a bunt attempt during Chicago's game against the Pittsburgh Pirates on Sept. 15. Though there was no structural damage, Rizzo was supposed to spend 5-7 days in a walking boot before a reevaluation.

However, the Cubs surprisingly announced that Rizzo would start at first base and bat leadoff for Thursday's opener against the St. Louis Cardinals. He sure made the most of his opportunity.

After the Cardinals took advantage of his limited mobility with a bunt that led to a run in the top of the third inning, Rizzo launched a homer off of St. Louis starter Jack Flaherty in the bottom of the frame:

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Rizzo's blast tied the game at one apiece in a series that the Cubs must win.

Chicago entered the contest three games back of the Cardinals in the National League Central division. With seven games in hand against the Cardinals and the Milwaukee Brewers pulling level with the Cubs, the North Siders have their work cut out for them over the final 10 days.

The loss of Anthony Rizzo was yet another damning injury for a team that has already spent the last week-plus without Javier Baez and Craig Kimbrel. However, his shocking return to the lineup is already paying dividends, and could give Chicago's offense a much-needed boost down the stretch.

Needless to say, “The Captain” is back.