Padres News: Padres promote infielder Mason McCoy, option Matthew Batten to El Paso

Mason McCoy has been called up to the San Diego Padres from Triple-A El Paso, filling the roster spot vacated by Matthew Batten, who has been optioned back to El Paso. This move comes as the Padres prepare for their game against the Minnesota Twins.

McCoy, who previously made a brief MLB appearance with the Toronto Blue Jays, is familiar with several teammates from his time in the minors. This familiarity should help ease his transition into the big leagues. He has been performing well in the Pacific Coast League, hitting .260 with five home runs over 108 games, primarily playing shortstop.

To accommodate McCoy, the Padres have also transferred Fernando Tatis Jr. to the 60-day injured list, a procedural move since Tatis has already been sidelined for that duration due to a stress reaction in his right femur.

With McCoy's addition, the Padres are looking to strengthen their infield defense. Manager Mike Shildt noted that McCoy's consistent experience at shortstop makes him a better fit for late-game situations compared to Batten, who has played various positions.

As the Padres aim for a series sweep against the Twins, Tyler Wade will continue to start at shortstop, while Luis Arraez leads off as the first baseman. Jake Cronenworth will serve as the designated hitter, with Xander Bogaerts at second base.

In the pitching matchup, the Padres will face Twins rookie Simeon Woods Richardson, who has had a mixed season so far. The Padres’ Matt Waldron, known for his knuckleball, will take the mound, looking to improve his performance after a challenging stretch since the All-Star break.