Jason Heyward (thumb) could be used as a defensive replacement or as a pinch hitter in Friday's game, the Atlanta Journal Constitution's David O'Brien reports.

Heyward (thumb) could be used as a defensive replacement or as a pinch hitter in Friday's game, the Atlanta Journal Constitution's David O'Brien reports.

Analysis:

This suggests Heyward is pretty close to returning to the starting lineup. He's still considered day-to-day for now. Ryan Doumit will start in right field Friday.