San Diego Padres star Fernando Tatis Jr. has been on fire to start the season, batting .364 with two home runs, seven RBIs, and five stolen bases through 12 games. However, fans held their breath during Tuesday’s game against the Athletics when Tatis winced after a swing and miss in the second inning. Though he completed the at-bat, he was later removed and replaced by Jayson Heyward.
Fortunately, Padres manager Mike Shildt provided a reassuring update, stating that medical evaluations showed no serious issues. Tatis felt strong and wasn’t concerned, but the team is choosing to be cautious and monitor his condition.
Shildt also gave an update on Jake Cronenworth, who left the same game early due to cramping in his right side after being hit by a pitch two days earlier. Like with Tatis, the team isn’t overly concerned about Cronenworth’s status.
Padres CF Jackson Merrill is headed to the 10-day IL with his hamstring injury.
He appears to be walking fine, but his recovery is not progressing as quickly as hoped. Padres choosing caution for long season.
— Kevin Acee (@sdutKevinAcee) April 8, 2025
Meanwhile, Jackson Merrill joined the injured list on Tuesday with right hamstring tightness. The move comes just a week after he signed a nine-year, $135 million deal. Merrill had been off to an excellent start, hitting .378 with three home runs and 10 RBIs in 10 games. He’s eligible to return on April 18 when the Padres face the Houston Astros, but it remains to be seen if he’ll be ready by then.
Mike Shildt provided the latest injury updates on Fernando Tatis Jr. and Jake Cronenworth, as well as discussed what he saw from Dylan Cease tonight: pic.twitter.com/46rUIVk5wr
— 97.3 The Fan (@973TheFanSD) April 9, 2025
With multiple key players nursing injuries, the Padres are hoping for quick recoveries to maintain their strong early-season momentum.