Mon Jul 07 01:40:00 UTC 2025: **Padres’ Bogaerts Back in Lineup After Cramp Scare; Shildt Praises Kolek, Morejon, and Bullpen**

**SAN DIEGO** – San Diego Padres shortstop Xander Bogaerts returned to the starting lineup Saturday night against the Texas Rangers after suffering leg cramps for the second time in a week. According to Padres’ manager Mike Shildt, the cramps are similar to those Bogaerts experienced recently, but the team is optimistic and has ruled out any muscular issues. “He’s doing everything he can from a hydration standpoint,” Shildt explained, attributing the cramps potentially to recent travel and scheduling.

In other Padres news, Shildt highlighted the performance of pitcher Stephen Kolek, who made his fourth start at Petco Park this season. Shildt emphasized Kolek’s ability to execute his pitches and credited the mentorship he receives from veteran pitchers like Joe Musgrove, Yu Darvish, Michael King, Dylan Cease, and Nick Pivetta.

Shildt also lauded reliever Adrian Morejon’s impressive streak of 21 straight appearances without allowing an earned run. He praised Morejon’s growth and mindset, stating, “He’s turning into an elite guy.”

Looking ahead to Sunday’s All-Star roster announcements, Shildt expressed his belief that four Padres relievers – Robert Suarez, Adrian Morejon, Jason Adam, and Jeremiah Estrada – deserve All-Star consideration. He acknowledged the difficulty in choosing just one, emphasizing the bullpen’s unity and willingness to pitch in any situation.

Finally, Shildt confirmed that Yu Darvish will not start Sunday’s game but is nearing a return to the mound. The Padres have yet to announce Sunday’s starting pitcher.

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