Padres star Tatis returns from IL after lengthy absence

The San Diego Padres activated outfielder Fernando Tatis Jr. from the injured list ahead of Monday's game against the Detroit Tigers.

Tatis is batting second and playing right field in his return. He was sidelined in late June with a stress reaction in his right leg.

The 25-year-old is slashing .279/.354/.468 with 14 home runs, 50 runs scored, and 36 RBIs with a 133 wRC+ in 80 games this season.

The Padres went 38-21 in Tatis' absence and own an MLB-best 28-12 record since the All-Star break.

Outfielder Bryce Johnson was optioned to Triple-A and outfielder José Azocar was designated for assignment to make room for Tatis on the active roster.