Chicago Cubs Addison Russell returns to lineup, denies domestic violence charge

All-Star shortstop Addison Russell was back in the Chicago Cubs' starting lineup Saturday after he denied an accusation of domestic violence against his wife.

Russell batted eighth in the lineup against the Colorado Rockies at Wrigley Field. He did not play in Friday's 5-3 loss to Colorado.

"You've just got to throw him back out there and have him try to work through the whole thing," Cubs manager Joe Maddon told reporters before the game.

Russell spoke to media in the clubhouse before Friday's game against the Rockies about baseball matters only. The 23-year-old said he wanted to focus on what got him to the majors, "being good."

Before Saturday's game, Russell was batting .209 with three home runs and 19 RBIs in 54 games this season. He has alternated with Javier Baez at shortstop.

Russell was accused of "mental and physical" abuse against his wife, Melisa, by someone claiming to be a family friend in an Instagram posting on a now-removed account.

"Any allegation I have abused my wife is false and hurtful. For the well-being of my family, I'll have no further comment," Russell said in a statement Thursday.