Apr 5, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; San Diego Padres outfielder Brandon Lockridge (28) grounds out during the ninth inning againast the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-Imagn Images
San Diego, California – The San Diego Padres received another boost to their outfield depth on Friday, reinstating Brandon Lockridge from the 10-day injured list. In a corresponding roster move, the team optioned outfielder Tirso Ornelas to Triple-A El Paso.
Lockridge, 28, had been sidelined with a hamstring injury suffered shortly after stepping in for injured centerfielder Jackson Merrill. Manager Mike Shildt had indicated earlier in the week that Lockridge was nearing the “finish line” of his rehab, and the outfielder is now ready to contribute once again.
“It’s been mentally a tough blow for me,” Lockridge told The San Diego Union-Tribune. “All I’ve ever asked for was an opportunity, and when I get it, to have an injury right in the middle of it, it sucks. But I’m trying to be as positive as I can be about it and come back stronger to help this team.”
Lockridge and Merrill had both been rehabbing in Arizona, and there’s speculation that Merrill may also be nearing a return to the lineup.
The Padres’ injury woes have been a recurring theme early this season, but they’ve managed to stay competitive. Earlier this week, the team welcomed back three-time batting champion Luis Arraez from the 7-day IL. Arraez has gone 3-for-7 with a triple and an RBI since returning from a concussion. Veteran outfielder Jason Heyward also recently rejoined the club after signing late in the offseason.
Despite the setbacks, the Padres have maintained one of the best records in baseball, a testament to their depth and resilience. They’ll kick off a road trip in Pittsburgh with Lockridge back in the mix and potentially more reinforcements on the way.
