PITTSBURGH — During Friday night’s matchup against Pittsburgh, Padres outfielder Fernando Tatis Jr. exited the game due to a left arm contusion that occurred when he was struck by a pitch.
Initial X-rays provided relief to the Padres as they came back negative, but Tatis was still receiving medical attention and would remain under observation.
The incident unfolded in the third inning with two outs, as Tatis faced Pirates pitcher Mitch Keller. Behind in the count at 0-1, Tatis was hit on the left forearm by an inside pitch. Immediately, he reacted by dropping his bat and withdrawing from the batter’s box, visibly in pain and holding his left arm.
Kneeling on the ground, Tatis cradled his injured arm while trainers rushed to assist. Rapid swelling became apparent at the point of impact on his forearm.
Oscar Gonzalez was called upon to replace Tatis, assuming his position both at the plate and in right field.
In the current season, the 26-year-old Tatis has been performing commendably with a .345 batting average, alongside eight home runs and 18 RBIs over 29 games.