NL West: Tatis Jr. nearing a return

San Diego Padres

Fernando Tatis Jr. has been out since mid-June with a right femoral stress reaction, but recently declared that he’s “definitely playing baseball next month.” He has progressed to playing long toss, running at 70% in the outfield, and took batting practice with the team for the first time on Friday, August 23. If his progress continues, it looks like he could return to the Padres lineup in mid-September.

The impact on the Padres lineup will likely largely depend on where the Padres are in the playoff chase when he returns. The Padres currently sit three games behind the Dodgers in the NL West and are tied with the Diamondbacks for the top wild card spot in the National League. They are three games ahead of the...

Almost!

You’re just a few clicks away from accessing this feature and hundreds more throughout the year that have a singular goal in mind: Winning your league. Subscribe to BaseballHQ.com here!

Already a subscriber? Sign in here

More From PT Tomorrow

Before spring training began, we asked about each team's playing time. Here are the answers for the AL West as spring training comes to an end.
Mar 25 2026 3:05am
Coby Mayo's spring surge has him well-positioned to be the beneficiary of Baltimore's infield injuries. Plus, more spring training topics revisited as Opening Day nears.
Mar 24 2026 3:06am
No need for a Magic 8 Ball—we've got your answers right here. SP in ATL; RF in MIA & PHI; SS at NYM; 1B in WAS; more.
Mar 23 2026 7:38am
This week's NL West column takes a close look at 2 prospects from each team who will likely play in the majors this year.
Mar 21 2026 3:06am
If JJ Wetherholt can't hang on to the leadoff spot who steps up in St. Louis?
Mar 20 2026 3:07am

Tools