Padres News: Jackson Merrill update, Tirso Ornelas promoted, Friars in danger of first sweep

The San Diego Padres are being smart about their injury decisions, even if that may upset Friar fans. We all want to see star outfielder Jackson Merrill play in as many games as possible, but his right hamstring strain will likely keep him sidelined longer than initially expected.

Merrill hit the 10-day injured list and was hopeful of returning for the start of San Diego's next homestand on April 25, but recent reports suggest otherwise. Merrill has stayed in San Diego during his rehab and is working out at Petco Park. It makes sense to not rush him back; the Padres can't afford to risk his health this early in the regular season.

Merrill isn't the only player hurt, either. Jake Cronenworth and Brandon Lockridge continue to try and recover from their respective injuries, which has given other players an opportunity to get their shine.

Tirso Ornelas, a 25-year-old outfielder, was called up to the big leagues. Finally given his chance in the majors, Ornelas was subbed into the game in the top of the seventh inning. He pinch-hit for Connor Joe, and he flew out to center field on three pitches. Ornelas also made two putouts in center.

Ornelas was a .281 hitter with Triple-A El Paso in 17 games before getting the call.

San Diego Padres face potential first sweep of the 2025 season

Similar to two weekends ago, the Padres are in danger of getting swept in a three-game series on the road entering Sunday's contest. The Friars were able to avoid the sweep against the Chicago Cubs two weeks ago with an 8-7 victory in the final game thanks to two late runs in the eighth and ninth frames.

Going into this Sunday, facing the Houston Astros, San Diego will send Dylan Cease to the mound to try and escape another potential. Both losses this series were close, and the Friars hope that Cease can hold Houston to the minimum to nab their 16th victory of the season.