Injuries & Moves: Merrill scratched with right groin tightness
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April 25: OF Jackson Merrill scratched late with right groin tightness
Merrill was a late scratch prior to Thursday’s series finale against the Rockies at Coors Field due to right groin tightness. Manager Mike Shildt said that the rookie center fielder could have played and that the move is precautionary. Merrill has gotten off to a strong start in his Major League career, hitting .318/.378/.409 in 27 games this season.
“I’m just getting used to the schedule -- two years ago, I was playing 15 games a season in high school,” said Merrill, who turned 21 on April 19. “So, just getting used to the everyday grind. … I appreciate [Shildt] being precautious and everything.”
April 24: 3B Manny Machado (paternity list) expected to return for series against Phillies
Machado, who is on the paternity list while he and his wife expect the delivery of their first child, will not play in the Padres’ series finale against Colorado on April 25, manager Mike Shildt said. Instead, Machado is slated to return to the lineup on April 26, when San Diego opens a series against the Phillies at Petco Park.
Prior to being plcaed on the paternity list, Machado started at DH in every game this season as he continues to rehab his right elbow after offseason surgery.
Infielder Matthew Batten was recalled from Triple-A El Paso to take Machado's place, his second stint with the Padres this season.
10-DAY/15-DAY INJURED LIST
RHP Yu Darvish (neck tightness)
Expected return: TBD
Darvish threw a side session on April 24, after which “reports were favorable,” according to manager Mike Shildt. “He was on the gas, but didn’t have it to the floor … it was a positive first step,” Shildt added. Darvish was placed on the 15-day IL on April 17 (retroactive to April 15). He last pitched on April 14 against the Dodgers in Los Angeles. The 37-year-old right-hander was shut down in September last season with a stress reaction in his right elbow and has dealt with back and neck issues in the past. (Last updated: April 24)
IF/OF Tucupita Marcano (surgery for torn right ACL)
Expected return: First half
Marcano has begun taking ground balls as he progresses in his rehab from a torn ACL. The 24-year-old utilityman had surgery last August after injuring his knee while playing for the Pirates against the Padres on July 24. He does not yet have a set date to return to game action but will continue ramping up his baseball activity. (Last updated: April 12)
RHP Glenn Otto (right shoulder teres major strain)
Expected return: First half
After dealing with shoulder trouble last season, Otto suffered a setback during the early stages of camp, and he's yet to pitch in Cactus League games. On March 9, manager Mike Shildt offered some clarity, noting that Otto is still in the rehab stage of his recovery, though he added that Otto is getting "closer to playing catch and baseball activity." The Padres claimed Otto off waivers from the Rangers last September. He was expected to be part of their rotation competition, but instead he opened the year on the injured list. (Last updated: March 25)
RHP Luis Patiño (right elbow inflammation)
Expected return: First half
Patiño made only two Cactus League appearances after arriving late from Colombia because of visa issues, costing him any chance to compete for a roster spot. He returned to the Padres, his original organization, via waiver claim on Dec. 22. (Last updated: March 25)