San Diego Padres shortstop Fernando Tatis Jr. is working his way back from injury. Orlando Ramirez-USA TODAY Sports

Padres star SS Fernando Tatis Jr. to begin hitting progression Friday

By Victor Barbosa | Last updated 7/15/22

San Diego Padres star shortstop Fernando Tatis Jr. is taking the next step in his hopeful return to the diamond.

Padres GM AJ Preller tells @BenAndWoods that Fernando Tatis Jr. will begin his hitting progression today. He's been doing more physical activity the last few weeks and the team will go week to week increasing his swings and volume, progressing towards games.
— 97.3 The Fan (@973TheFanSD) July 15, 2022

It was reported Thursday that the Friars were being "extremely cautious" with the 23-year-old after he underwent surgery to repair a fractured wrist in March. It was estimated that Tatis Jr. would be sidelined for up to three months, but now in mid-July, it's been four months since the procedure.

Tatis Jr. missed time during the 2021 campaign with a bothersome shoulder but still managed to lead the league with 42 home runs in 130 games and pick up his second consecutive Silver Slugger Award. He also registered 97 RBI, 25 stolen bases and a .282/.364/.611 slash line and finished third in the NL MVP voting.

More must-reads: