Padres Face Ankle Injury Uncertainty Surrounding Jackson Merrill

The San Diego Padres, trailing the Los Angeles Dodgers by two games after a weekend sweep, face a critical stretch as they prepare for a seven-game homestand starting with four games against the San Francisco Giants. A key concern is the health of All-Star outfielder Jackson Merrill, who left Sunday's game early due to a left ankle injury that had worsened over the weekend. Manager Mike Shildt described Merrill's injury as a day-to-day issue, expressing hope that it will not require a lengthy absence despite his prior stints on the injured list this season with hamstring and concussion problems. Merrill, who signed a nine-year, $135 million extension before the 2025 season, has experienced a sophomore slump compared to his impressive rookie year but remains a vital contributor to the team's playoff push. The Padres hope Merrill's injury does not derail their efforts to overcome the Dodgers in the NL West race, especially with the final series against Los Angeles scheduled at Petco Park. Meanwhile, left-hander Nestor Cortes is set to start Monday's game against the Giants, continuing his efforts to stabilize the Padres' pitching rotation.