San Diego Padres' OF/1B Kyle Blanks is nearing a return to the team's lineup and could be back as early as Sunday against the Dodgers, reports MLB.com.
San Diego has been without Blanks since July 12 while he suffered from tendinitis in both of his Achilles' tendons. Blanks has been on a minor league rehab the past week, playing in four games for Triple-A Tucson. He picked up one hit and one walk over 11 at-bats.
Blanks, 26, had been starting consistently for the Padres before going down with his injury. He has filled in where needed in both corner outfield spots and first base this year. With Yonder Alonso at first base and Carlos Quentin and Cameron Maybin out, Blanks will likely see most of his opportunities in the outfield moving forward.
Blanks, a former top prospect, is hitting .256/.318/.425 over 67 games this season with eight home runs. He had been struggling to get on base just before his injury, but nice power numbers allowed him to post a respectable OPS.
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