DETROIT — The San Diego Padres announced a challenging setback on Monday as Luis Arraez was added to the seven-day concussion injured list. The accomplished batter sustained a head injury during Sunday night’s game in Houston when he collided with Mauricio Dubón of the Astros in a daunting incident at first base.
After the collision, Arraez was immobilized on a backboard and subsequently taken out of the stadium on a cart. Although he was briefly hospitalized, he managed to return to the ballpark by the end of San Diego’s narrow 3-2 triumph.
Padres manager Mike Shildt reported that post-collision checks revealed no structural harm, and Arraez was quite sore on Monday as expected. “Given the severity it seemed to have, this news is incredibly positive,” Shildt noted. “He celebrated with his teammates afterward, alert, which uplifted team morale, most importantly for Luis himself.” He added that Arraez experienced minor neck soreness but no significant cognitive concerns, mentioning further evaluation and a placement into concussion protocol for safe measure.
As Arraez journeyed back to San Diego on Monday, the Padres called up infielder Mason McCoy from Triple-A El Paso to fill the gap as they prepared for their series opener against the Detroit Tigers. Shildt explained that Arraez sustained a small cut on his jaw, and comprehensive testing would continue to determine when he might return to playing. “It’s the most optimistic scenario we could hope for,” Shildt said, expressing hopes for promising test outcomes and waiting for the green light on cognitive stability and physical readiness.
The incident transpired when Arraez attempted to drag a bunt toward first baseman Christian Walker, who tossed the ball to Dubón, covering the base. The collision occurred as Arraez made contact with Dubón’s arm or elbow, causing both to hit the ground, while Arraez remained motionless.
Dubón commented on the unnerving situation, stating, “It was frightening to see him unmoving, and distressing since I am not known for rough plays.” He acknowledged the difficulties that can follow such incidents, including unwanted online threats, emphasizing it as a challenging time.
Prominent players including Dubón, Walker, Fernando Tatis Jr., and Manny Machado stood vigil as Arraez was securely moved from the field. Emotions ran high as Tatis shared, “Witnessing him on the ground saddened me deeply. I prayed for him immediately and am now relieved to see him back with us.”
Shortly after the play resumed following a ten-minute pause, Padres adjusted their game focus. Arraez, a three-time All-Star, holds an impressive record, hitting .287 with three home runs and seven RBIs this season.
Having captured three consecutive batting titles, including one in the American League and two in the National League, Arraez is known for his notable achievement of 203 hits in 2023 while delivering 200 hits last season across the Marlins and Padres. “He possesses the heart of a champion,” Shildt praised Arraez’s remarkable determination and spirit.