CHICAGO -- He has been gone for all but three games this season, but he isn't far from the action. Chicago Cubs outfielder/catcher Kyle Schwarber is preparing for the playoffs as well -- as a cheerleader. He has been in the dugout for the home games but now looks to expand his role.

Here’s a quick update on the Cubs' career postseason home run leader, who began light jogging recently as he recovers from a devastating knee injury.

Will you travel during the playoffs?

Kyle Schwarber is eager to travel for the playoffs, root on his teammates and offer any help he can. AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh

Kyle Schwarber: Yes. I will be on the bench cheering. I’m ready for it. I’m ready to just travel. I haven’t been able to the whole season. Only in Arizona for rehab and for the White Sox series. It will be exciting, especially in a playoff atmosphere.

What have you learned as a cheerleader?

KS: I’ve learned a lot. I’ve spent most of my time in the video room when I’m not rehabbing, breaking down hitters. Being able to watch games now, watching how the game management goes, just the way pitchers want to attack hitters, how our guys attack hitters and other pitchers attack our hitters, like myself. I’ve definitely grown mentally as a player.

Do you have a better idea this year of whom to pat on the back and who needs space as you navigate the dugout during games?

KS: You know when to stay in your lane or tell someone good job. You might say good at-bat if they put up a tough one, but you mostly stay away from people whenever they just grinded something out or it didn’t work out for them.

Has staying in shape or keeping your weight down before you were able to start running been an issue during this rehab time?

KS: At first it was because I wasn’t doing anything for those first six weeks. I was just sitting on the couch eating, but luckily, I had healthy meals prepared for me, so all I had to do was throw them in the microwave and eat. Now that I’m on my feet and lifting more and starting to get outside, I don’t think it will be a problem. I’m not where I want to be weight-wise just yet, but I think I’m just a few pounds off that.

You’ve answered this before, but I wonder if it has changed. I’m sure you’ve been impressed with Willson Contreras' skills. Are you still committed to catching, or do you want to concentrate solely on left field when you get back?

KS: I know that he’s more talented than I am behind the plate with some things, but I still think I can bring some things to the table and guide a pitcher. I am not giving up on catching at all just because I have a bum knee. Buster Posey broke his leg, and he’s still catching.