Around the Horn: Padres’ Injury Update

Chase Headley was traded to the Yankees earlier last week, and Yonder Alonso was reinstated from the 15-day disabled list this morning, but where are the final two members of the Padres’ Opening Day infield? Both Jedd Gyorko and Everth Cabrera are working their way back from injury.

Gyorko (foot) has played 5 games at Triple-A El Paso, and has been swinging the bat well. His slash line during those 5 games is .300/.391/.500 with 1 home run. Bud Black wants to make sure that Gyorko is comfortable in the box and swinging the bat well before they reinstate him. Is he now the starting third baseman?

Cabrera (hamstring) went 2-for-5 last night, as he moves along in his rehab back to the Padres. He has been playing along side Gyorko and will get plenty of reps before being called up. Perhaps during the next homestand, we will see him back in a Padres’ uniform.

The Padres’ Opening Day starter is also rehabbing back from the disabled list. Andrew Cashner (shoulder) will begin to stretch out his throwing program. The Padres, with nothing to play for, will not rush his return to the pitcher’s mound.

To complete this injury update, Robbie Erlin is scheduled to throw a simulated game, and should begin his official rehab assignment soon.

Just like 2013, the injury bug has bit the Padres hard this season. Perhaps Padres’ CEO Mike Dee should invest in some injury bug spray during the upcoming off-season.

Keep the Faith.