Padres All-Star infielder Jake Cronenworth fractures finger

Padres star infielder Jake Cronenworth has a small fracture on his left ring finger, per AJ Cassavell of MLB.com. It’s unclear at this time how long Cronenworth might be out. A lengthy absence would be a crushing blow for the Friars as they look to stave off the Reds for the last playoff spot in the National League.

Cronenworth has built upon a surprising rookie season in 2020 with an All-Star campaign this season. With a .270/.348/.466 slash line, 20 home runs and 89 runs scored, Cronenworth has been 21 percent better than average with the bat.

His contributions have been particularly valuable paired with high-end defensive versatility. Most of his playing time has come at the keystone, but he’s also filled in at first base and shortstop at key points this season. Most notably, he has served as the Padres’ starting shortstop ever since the team moved Fernando Tatis Jr. to the outfield.

If Cronenworth misses significant time, Ha-Seong Kim could take over at short. Kim hasn’t been as productive with the bat as expected, but he has received strong marks for his glovework, accruing eight Defensive Runs Saved in just 243 innings.