Full Breakdown
Fernando Tatis Jr. and Xander Bogaerts Update Ahead of Padres-Brewers Series
9/23/2025, 2:01:05 PM
Key Player Absences for Padres
As the San Diego Padres prepare to face the Milwaukee Brewers, two key players, Fernando Tatis Jr. and Xander Bogaerts, will not be in the lineup for the series opener on September 22, 2025. Tatis Jr. is sidelined due to an illness, with Padres manager Mike Shildt confirming that Tatis "didn't wake up feeling good." His absence is precautionary, and there is optimism that he could return to the lineup as early as September 23, depending on his recovery. In Tatis's place, Ryan O'Hearn will start in right field.
Bogaerts, who has been on the injured list since August 27 due to a fracture in his left foot, is also not starting. However, Shildt noted that Bogaerts underwent an extensive workout at Petco Park and is trending towards activation, potentially returning to the lineup soon.
Recent Performance and Impact on Playoff Chase
The Padres are currently in a critical phase of the season, holding the second National League wild card spot and trailing the first-place Los Angeles Dodgers by three games. With only six games remaining, the Padres can clinch a playoff spot with a win against the Brewers, as their magic number stands at one. The team recently secured a 3-2 victory over the Chicago White Sox, where Tatis Jr. hit his 23rd home run of the season, contributing to the team's playoff aspirations.
Upcoming Matchup: Pitching Duel
The Padres will face Brewers right-hander Freddy Peralta, who boasts a 17-6 record and a 2.65 ERA this season. Peralta has been particularly effective, allowing one run or less in seven of his last eight starts. In contrast, Padres right-hander Nick Pivetta, with a 13-5 record and a 2.81 ERA, is looking to bounce back after a less-than-stellar outing in his last start. Historically, Pivetta has struggled against the Brewers, holding a 9.95 ERA in four starts against them.
Official Statements & Responses
Mike Shildt expressed confidence in both Tatis Jr. and Bogaerts, stating, “Unless something unfortunate happens, we expect him [Bogaerts] to be in there tomorrow.” He emphasized the importance of monitoring Tatis's recovery closely, indicating that the team is taking a cautious approach with both players.
Criticism & Opposition
While the Padres are in a favorable position for the playoffs, some analysts have raised concerns about the team's depth, particularly with the absence of Tatis Jr. and Bogaerts. Critics argue that relying on players like O'Hearn could impact the team's performance in crucial games.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We’re getting (Tatis) checked out,” Shildt said.” — Mike Shildt, Padres Manager
- “And got him on the bases and really stretched him out — home to first, first to third, second to home, home and then took him through a nice groundball routine that you know, forced him to go to all different angles, backhand, slow, roller, forehand, double plays, feeds and pivots. And he really looked good. … And he took some swings off the machine and BP, and just got through sitting down with him and feels good. And unless something, you know, unfortunate happens, we expect him to be in there tomorrow, but we just have to see how he recovers from today, which is a pretty extensive workout. But he looked fantastic.” — Mike Shildt on Xander Bogaerts's workout
The Padres' ability to navigate these player absences will be pivotal as they aim to secure their postseason berth against a competitive Brewers team.
