Padres News: Fernando Tatis Jr. makes triumphant return to Padres

Fernando Tatis Jr. is back with the San Diego Padres after a lengthy absence due to a stress reaction in his right thighbone. Activated from the 60-day injured list , Tatis is set to play in the opening game of a three-game series against the Detroit Tigers. The Padres are currently in a tight race for the National League's top wild card spot, sharing the position with the Arizona Diamondbacks.

Tatis last appeared in a game on June 21 and was placed on the injured list shortly after. He spent the past week training at the team's spring training facility in Arizona, preparing for his return.

Upon rejoining the team, Tatis received a warm welcome from his teammates, particularly from center fielder Jackson Merrill, a strong contender for the NL Rookie of the Year. Tatis had been dealing with his injury for most of the season, initially thought to be a quadriceps issue until further imaging revealed the stress reaction.

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In his last full season, Tatis earned both the NL Gold Glove and Platinum Glove awards while playing right field. He was an All-Star shortstop in 2021 but missed the entire 2022 season due to injury and a suspension. At the time of his injury, Tatis was hitting .279 with 14 home runs and 36 RBIs.

To make room for Tatis on the roster, outfielder Bryce Johnson has been optioned to Triple-A El Paso.