Week 3 of the MLB season brings a flurry of injury updates for fantasy managers. The Atlanta Braves' star outfielder Ronald Acuña Jr. is on the mend after a torn ACL. While he was initially expected to miss significant time following a slow start in spring training, he has now been cleared to ramp up activities, with a potential return in May. His impressive 2023 season makes him a must-start upon return.

San Diego Padres outfielder Jackson Merrill, who started the season strong, is currently sidelined with a hamstring injury. Reports indicate he is slowly progressing but not yet cleared to run. He remains on the IL, leaving fantasy managers in a cautious holding pattern.

Cincinnati Reds' infielder Matt McLain has made a quicker return after a brief hiatus due to a hamstring strain. He has been activated from the injured list and is expected to anchor the Reds’ infield for the remainder of the season, providing solid fantasy value due to his power and speed.

Injuries are affecting several key players as the MLB season unfolds, with Jackson Merrill, Jack Leiter, and Zach Neto all on the shelf but expected to return soon. Each player is dealing with different injuries, yet reports suggest that all could be back by mid-to-late April.

Jackson Merrill, the talented outfielder for the San Diego Padres, has been placed on the 10-day injured list due to a hamstring tweak. Despite a rocky start, his impressive play last season and a new contract extension have made him a fantasy favorite. Meanwhile, Jack Leiter of the Texas Rangers is sidelined with a blister on his finger but has shown encouraging signs after a strong start to the 2025 season. Lastly, Zach Neto of the Los Angeles Angels is making strides in recovery from a shoulder injury, showcasing solid numbers in his rehab stints. Fantasy managers should monitor these players closely, as they could significantly impact lineups upon their return.

Jackson Merrill, the newly signed $135 million center fielder for the San Diego Padres, is headed to the injured list following a right hamstring strain, marking a significant setback for the NL West leaders. This injury comes just after he recorded an impressive .378 batting average, driving in 10 runs with three home runs in his first eight games. Merrill's strong performance contributed to the Padres achieving their first-ever 6-0 start in franchise history.

Drafted in the first round of 2021, Merrill transitioned from shortstop to center field during spring training last year, showcasing his versatility. In his rookie season, he achieved remarkable stats, batting .292 with 24 homers and 90 RBIs, finishing as runner-up for NL Rookie of the Year. His commitment to the Padres is evident, having inked a nine-year contract with an option for a tenth season as the franchise seeks to build a championship roster alongside stars like Manny Machado and Fernando Tatis Jr.

San Diego Padres center fielder Jackson Merrill has been placed on the 10-day injured list due to a right hamstring strain, backdated to April 7. The 21-year-old had been performing phenomenally, with a .378 batting average and three home runs in just 10 games this season. In his absence, the Padres have promoted Oscar Gonzalez from Triple-A El Paso, while rookie Brandon Lockridge will take over the center field position for the upcoming game against the Athletics.

Merrill's early-season success was highlighted by his impressive .415 on-base percentage and .676 slugging percentage, marking him as a key player for the Padres. His IL stint allows him to recover fully without being rushed back into action. Gonzalez has previously played 145 games in the MLB with a respectable .269 batting average and will look to make an impact during Merrill's absence as the Padres maintain their position at the top of MLB standings.