Padres News: Michael Wacha Making Progress, Return from IL Coming into Focus

The Friars await his return ahead of their stretch run.

Despite a disappointing season relative to expectations thus far, the Padres are hopeful that one piece of their puzzle will return in short order to the major league roster. 

After going on the injured list last month, starter Michael Wacha faced minor-league hitters earlier this week at home and could be set for a return to the bigs in the next few weeks. 

Padres manager Bob Melvin detailed the veteran's progress in anticipation of his return to action. 

“Felt good, velo was there. We’ll see how he feels (Tuesday). And we’ll probably have some plans on what’s next.”

Via San Diego Union Tribune

Wacha was off to a fantastic start in the first of his four-year contract with the franchise this season after he spent a resurgent last season with the Red Sox. 

The former long-time Cardinal lobbied his great season into this new contract and the early returns were impressive. Wacha pitched a spectacular May and earned himself the National League Pitcher of the Month. 

Overall, Wacha has pitched to a sub-3 ERA, an 8-2 record and 73 Ks with a WHIP just over 1 this season before he suffered his shoulder injury. 

The imminent return of one of San Diego's best arms is a welcome sight for Padres fans and adds to their reinforcements in recent days. 

On deadline day, the Padres traded for former Dodger pitcher Rich Hill and first baseman Ji-Man Choi from Pittsburgh in a bit of a surprising move for the team who is currently under .500. They also added Garret Cooper and Sean Reynolds from the Marlins and Scott Barlow from the Royals in two other big moves.

GM AJ Preller seemingly believes in the core that stacked up one of the highest payrolls headed into the season and with the Dodgers' recent skid, the time to strike was now. 

With Blake Snell having a Cy-Young caliber season and the Friars sitting five games out of a Wild Card spot, San Diego isn't giving up by selling this deadline.

Wacha's return should be a welcome addition to this pursuit another exciting postseason run for the Padres.