The Chicago Cubs today activated left-handed pitcher Jon Lester off of the 10-day injured list. Left-handed pitcher Tim Collins was optioned to Triple-A Iowa following last night’s game. Lester will make the start for the Cubs this afternoon when they conclude their three-game series against the Los Angeles Dodgers at Wrigley Field.

Lester, 35, was placed on the 10-day disabled list on April 10 (retroactive to April 9) with a left hamstring strain, as he endured the injury 17 days ago on April 8 vs. Pittsburgh. His return to the rotation did not require a minor league rehab assignment, though he did do a three-inning, 45-pitch sim game/live batting practice last Saturday morning. Lester was Chicago’s Opening Day starter and is 1-0 with a 2.57 ERA (4 ER/14.0 IP) in three starts with the Cubs this season.

Collins, 29, has posted no record and a 2.70 ERA (1 ER/3.1 IP) in four relief appearances with the Cubs this year. He has made three relief outings with Iowa this season, posting no record and a 3.38 ERA (1 ER/2.2 IP).