Dodgers' Yamamoto will return from IL Tuesday vs. Cubs

The Los Angeles Dodgers' rotation is getting a huge boost for the stretch run.

Rookie right-hander Yoshinobu Yamamoto will come off the injured list and start Tuesday's game against the Chicago Cubs at Dodger Stadium, manager Dave Roberts announced, according to ESPN's Alden González.

Yamamoto hasn't pitched since June, when he was sidelined by a strained rotator cuff. Although it was feared that the injury could end his season, he was able to begin playing catch in July with the goal of pitching again this year.

The 26-year-old made his second of two rehab starts at Triple-A Oklahoma City on Tuesday, allowing two runs while striking out three in two innings of work. Although he pitched only two innings in both of his rehab outings, Yamamoto's 53-pitch effort on Tuesday left the Dodgers comfortable enough to bring him back to the majors in lieu of a third minor-league start, according to Jack Harris of the Los Angeles Times.

Before his injury, Yamamoto was turning in a stellar rookie season for the Dodgers, putting up a 2.92 ERA and 1.07 WHIP with 84 strikeouts and just six home runs allowed in 14 starts.

His return is welcome news for a Dodgers club that's once again been hit hard by pitching injuries. Los Angeles lost Clayton Kershaw to a toe injury in his most recent start, while All-Star Tyler Glasnow needs more time on the IL as he recovers from an elbow issue.

Right-hander Landon Knack will also rejoin the Dodgers' rotation in what was Kershaw's spot. Knack will be recalled from Oklahoma City and start Friday against Cleveland, according to David Vassegh of AM 570 Los Angeles.

The Dodgers enter play Wednesday leading San Diego by 5 1/2 games in the NL West.