PEORIA, Ariz. -- Alex Dickerson's ailing back flared up again Sunday night, and the Padres left fielder was scratched from Monday's lineup against the Cubs, a setback which raises questions about his status for Opening Day.
Dickerson, who batted .257/.333/.455 during his rookie season last year, was expected to receive the bulk of the playing time in left field this season. He missed the first two weeks of Cactus League play, before debuting as a designated hitter on Saturday.
Monday's game was supposed to be Dickerson's first appearance in the outfield. But his back began to stiffen following Sunday's workout.