Friars On Base
Fansided

Why Xander Bogaerts gives Padres defensive upgrade they need for postseason

This is a massive boost as Bogaerts provides the veteran presence
ByWill Lockwood|
Sep 23, 2025; San Diego, California, USA; San Diego Padres shortstop Xander Bogaerts (2) throws to first for an out during the fifth inning against the Milwaukee Brewers at Petco Park. Mandatory Credit: David Frerker-Imagn Images
Sep 23, 2025; San Diego, California, USA; San Diego Padres shortstop Xander Bogaerts (2) throws to first for an out during the fifth inning against the Milwaukee Brewers at Petco Park. Mandatory Credit: David Frerker-Imagn Images | David Frerker-Imagn Images

The vibes are at an all-time high in San Diego as they officially punched their ticket to the postseason on Monday. The team is also welcoming back Xander Bogaerts to the lineup, as he returns from his month-long IL stint, battling a non-displaced fracture in his foot.

Bogaerts has struggled at the plate in 2025, but he found his rhythm in the three months leading up to his injury, as he was batting .277 with a 114 wRC+. Overall, he was a much more respected bat in what is a batting order filled with depth.

Xander Bogaerts’ return upgrades Padres defense at perfect time

Even when he was in bad slumps at the dish, Bogaerts was too valuable to keep out of the lineup because his defense was excellent. A top-13% Fielding Run Value (FRV) with seven Outs Above Average (OAA) solidified him as an everyday player.

Padres fans took this type of production for granted, as the team had to platoon guys at shortstop. Mike Shildt tried Jose Iglesias, Jake Cronenworth, and even recalled Mason McCoy from the minor leagues to give him reps at the position.

MLB’s AJ Cassavell reported Bogaerts’s excitement and readiness to be back in the lineup for the final week of the regular season.

“I’m definitely happy to be able to come back a little bit sooner and be able to play in some big league games,” said Bogaerts. “To get a couple games in me before we head into the playoffs will be really nice.”

Bogaerts struggled in his first game back, going 0-for-4 with a strikeout. But it is likely that he finds his rhythm again ahead of the Wild Card Series that takes place on Tuesday.

The Padres clubhouse couldn’t have missed Bogaerts’s veteran presence more, and we are sure everyone is incredibly thankful and excited to have him back in the lineup. After all, he is the team leader, playing shortstop and making sure everyone is in the right position. This will be a huge boost for the team as they look to finish the regular season on a strong note.

More San Diego Padres News and Rumors

Home/Padres News