Since Spring Training, Wade Miley has felt like he’s been behind the proverbial 8-ball.

“I feel like I’ve just been playing catchup from Spring Training,” Miley told reporters in St. Louis prior to Sunday’s series finale against the Cardinals.

Come Tuesday, Miley will be up to speed. The team announced that he will start the series opener at Wrigley Field against the Reds, making his first big-league appearance since June 10. Miley’s been on the IL since then with a left shoulder strain.

Last week, he told reporters he’s “got no choice” and had to return this season. He feels like he’s in a good position to return, given his build-up from his left shoulder strain. He went through a ramp up and made a few minor league rehab starts.

“We took this time to pretty much start all over and have a full build up, do some treatment, take care of some things and so far it’s been pretty good this round,” Miley said. “A lot of throwing, hoping things feel better and just a longer road than we hoped, but hopefully we’re here now and can finish out the year strong.”

His time away from the field hasn’t meant he’s spent his time relaxing and away from the team. On the contrary, he’s been with the team almost throughout the rehab process, including on road trips.

“The little things he does for us are really invaluable,” manager David Ross said. “It’s really noticeable when he goes off on a rehab start or doesn’t make a trip with us that there’s a lot of energy that’s in the dugout that’s missing.

“I know he wants to pitch more, but he’s been a really nice addition for us this year in a lot of ways outside of performance.”

Miley has been a veteran leader and a good clubhouse presence for the team, initiating new traditions for the team, too. Now, he’ll have a final opportunity to contribute to the team in the win-loss column, too.

“Just go out and compete and give us a chance to win, ike any other start I’ve ever made in my career,” Miley said. “Just try to go out and put us in a position that we have a chance to win a game.”