The Padres’ most frequent lead-off hitter is in a self-described “funk” and blaming himself for starting the offense cold.
So it is good timing — as if there would be bad timing — that the Padres’ most productive lead-off hitter is about to take a big step toward returning.
Fernando Tatis Jr. will begin a rehab assignment Monday with Double-A Amarillo. If all goes well, the 20-year-old shortstop could be back atop the Padres’ lineup by week’s end.
The rookie has not played since April straining his left hamstring stretching to make a catch on April 28.