Padres Get All-Star Back Ahead of Series Opener Against Braves

Apr 6, 2024; San Francisco, California, USA; San Diego Padres second baseman Xander Bogaerts (right) slaps hands with right fielder Fernando Tatis Jr. (23) during the first inning against the San Francisco Giants at Oracle Park. Mandatory Credit: Darren Yamashita-USA TODAY Sports | Darren Yamashita-USA TODAY Sports

The San Diego Padres welcomed back infielder Xander Bogaerts to their active roster ahead of Friday's series opener against the Atlanta Braves. Once he's officially activated, Bogaerts will start at second base and bat behind Manny Machado, manager Mike Shildt told reporters in San Diego.

Bogaerts injured his shoulder May 20 making a diving play in the field. He was subsequently diagnosed with a fracture, and vowed to beat the initial timeline of 2-3 months before returning to the field. Friday, that vow proved prescient.

Xander Bogaerts was asked how he feels the team has done while missing several players due to injuries and the biggest difference between this year's team and last year's team: pic.twitter.com/Y9IR1fYoeb

— 97.3 The Fan (@973TheFanSD) July 12, 2024

Bogaerts played six minor league rehab games — four for Triple-A El Paso, two for advanced Class-A Lake Elsinore — before returning to San Diego. He collected six hits, including a double, in 18 at-bats while also drawing five walks.

It's been a disappointing season overall for the four-time All-Star. He's hitting a mere .219 in 187 at-bats, with four home runs and 14 RBIs. The injury absence could offer the 31-year-old a chance to reset.

Xander Bogaerts discussed how it feels to be back with the Padres, re-acclimating to the Majors and why it was important to him to return for this series rather than waiting until after the All-Star break: pic.twitter.com/OUsDiefyvk

— 97.3 The Fan (@973TheFanSD) July 12, 2024

The Padres signed Bogaerts to an 11-year, $280 million contract prior to last season. In his first year in San Diego, Bogaerts hit 19 home runs, stole 19 bases and slashed .285/.350/.440 (.790 OPS).

This year, his OPS is down to .581 while also ceding the shortstop position to Ha-Seong Kim.