Padres star Fernando Tatis, Jr. tests positive for COVID-19

The San Diego Padres were dealt a blow on Tuesday with Fernando Tatis, Jr. becoming the latest MLB player to test positive for COVID-19.

Tatis, Jr. is apparently asymptomatic, per Padres manager Jayce Tingler, but has been placed on the injured list as he recovers from COVID-19. Jurickson Profar and Jorge Mateo were also placed on the injured list, though it’s unknown if they are suffering from COVID-like symptoms as well at this time.

The Padres have been without Tatis, Jr.’s services once before this season, as he missed some time with what was thought to be a severe shoulder injury. Fortunately, he has been able to play through that pain for the most part, forgoing what would’ve been season-ending surgery.

How long will the Padres be without Fernando Tatis, Jr.?

That remains to be seen, as it will depend on Tatis, Jr.’s symptoms and when he tests negative for the virus. Once COVID-19 is out of his system, he will be able to return to the team after a series of COVID-negative tests.

In need of serious roster reinforcements, the Padres recalled INF/OF Tucupita Marcano and RHP Nabil Crismatt from Triple-A El Paso and selected OF John Andreoli. San Diego currently sits in second place in the NL West with a record of 19-16, just two games behind the San Francisco Giants and one game ahead of the Los Angeles Dodgers, who are struggling in their own right.