Rizzo makes surprising return to Cubs' lineup 4 days after ankle injury

Anthony Rizzo is in the lineup for the Chicago Cubs on Thursday, playing first base and leading off against the St. Louis Cardinals.

Rizzo was diagnosed with a lateral right ankle sprain Monday after injuring himself the day prior and was supposed to be in a walking boot for five-to-seven days.

The 30-year-old decided Thursday he wanted to play and received clearance from the team, according to Paul Sullivan of the Chicago Tribune.

Rizzo had a cortisone shot Monday and will have his ankle tightly wrapped, Sullivan adds.

The three-time All-Star has been one of Chicago's best players this season, hitting .289/.404/.516 with 26 home runs and 93 RBIs.

The Cubs also announced shortstop Addison Russell has been activated from the seven-day concussion list, according to MLB.com's Jordan Bastian.