Padres' Merrill Returns After Illness, Misses Rockies Game

San Diego Padres outfielder Jackson Merrill was scratched from Sunday's lineup against the Colorado Rockies due to an illness, despite having recently returned from a month-long hamstring injury. The exact cause of his illness was unclear, but Merrill received IV treatment and was reported to be feeling better, with his status monitored for upcoming games. Gavin Sheets moved to the cleanup spot while Tyler Wade replaced Merrill in center field. Merrill had been a key contributor since his return, batting .446 with multiple multi-hit games. He avoided any further hamstring issues and returned to play in the next game against the Angels. The Padres lost to the Rockies during Merrill's absence, their first defeat to Colorado this season, and are focused on keeping Merrill healthy as they chase the division-leading Dodgers.