Gavin Sheets, who has emerged as an unexpected offensive contributor for the San Diego Padres this season, suffered an injury during Sunday’s game against the Pittsburgh Pirates. While playing left field, Sheets collided face-first with the wall at Petco Park after attempting to catch a fly ball hit by Pirates second baseman Adam Frazier. The ball ultimately hit the fence for a home run. Medical personnel rushed to his aid as he remained down on the ground for several minutes, but he managed to walk off the field unassisted. Brandon Lockridge replaced him in the lineup.
Following the Padres’ 6-4 victory, manager Mike Shildt provided an update on Sheets’ condition, revealing that he sustained a head contusion, a sore hip, and minor issues with his wrist and thumb. The team is currently assessing the possibility of a concussion. Shildt noted that Sheets’ hip seems to be the most painful area, though he emphasized that the other injuries should not be overlooked.
Sheets has had a breakout season after being non-tendered by the Chicago White Sox last November. He joined the Padres on a minor-league deal before spring training and has since recorded a batting average of .267 with 11 home runs and a team-high 34 RBIs. While predominantly a designated hitter, Sheets has recently been utilized in left field due to Jason Heyward’s injury and the team’s struggles for offensive production in that position.
Unfortunately, this collision marks the second time Sheets has had an issue with the left-field wall this season, having collided with it previously during a game on May 18. If he is sidelined for an extended period, the Padres might struggle with limited options at left field, with backups like Lockridge and utility player Tyler Wade demonstrating less-than-stellar performance records.
Despite the setback, the Padres remain optimistic about their upcoming games and the potential for Sheets’ swift recovery, given his significant contributions to the team’s offense so far this season.