Overview
- Jackson Merrill, the Padres' star center fielder, was placed on the injured list on April 9 due to a right hamstring strain sustained during recent play.
- Merrill is expected to miss at least 10 days, with his return anticipated for the team's April 18 series opener in Houston.
- The Padres recalled outfielder Oscar Gonzalez from Triple-A El Paso to address the roster vacancy caused by Merrill's absence.
- Prior to his injury, Merrill was off to a stellar start this season, batting .378 with a 1.091 OPS, and had recently signed a nine-year, $135 million contract extension on April 2.
- Additional injuries to second baseman Jake Cronenworth and right fielder Fernando Tatis Jr. in the same game have further tested the Padres' roster depth.