Cameron Maybin suffers ruptured biceps tendon, to miss 2-3 months

Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports

Having been plagued by injuries throughout the entire 2013 season, the last thing the San Diego Padres wanted to see was one of their expected regulars going down during Spring Training. Things often don’t work out as planned, however, as the team learned on Monday that they’ll be without center fielder Cameron Maybin for the next 2-3 months. An MRI revealed a ruptured biceps tendon.

Maybin made a diving play in right-center during the team’s Grapefruit League game on Sunday. He’d appear in pain following the catch, but would remain in the game. The next batter would line a single to center and Maybin was seen grabbing his left shoulder immediately after getting the ball back in. Trainers would come out to examine him before walking him off the field. The team wasted little time getting him scheduled for an MRI exam early Monday.

Will Venable is likely the favorite to take over in center field.

Maybin missed most of the 2013 season as well, due to a wrist injury and ultimately a torn PCL. He’d appear in just 14 games on the year, batting .157/.232/.235 in 57 PA. Following a slow start to his career that saw him traded twice, Maybin had finally started to settle in as a useful (though hardly an All Star caliber) player upon his arrival in San Diego before the 2011 season. He’d hit .253/.315/.371 over the next two seasons, averaging 8 HR and 33 SB in 560+ PA each year. San Diego signed him to a five year contract following that first season. Maybin’s slated to earn $5 Million this season. He’s due a total of $15 Million between 2015 and 2016, however.

Injuries had already been a topic of discussion in Padres camp even before the team lost Maybin. Both Yasmani Grandal and Casey Kelly are working their way back following significant 2013 surgeries. Each could be ready for Opening Day, but nothing’s been assured as of yet. Chase Headley is slowed by a calf strain and might not be ready to appear in any Spring Training games until mid-March. San Diego also has already lost Cory Luebke for the 2014 season after the right-hander underwent Tommy John surgery in mid-February.

Venable made 80 starts in center field for the Padres a year ago. The 31 year old has largely been a platoon player throughout his career but flourished with added playing time in 2013. He’d hit .268/.312/.484 in 515 PA, adding a career best 22 HR. Reymond Fuentes, who spent most of 2013 at Double-A, could also be an option in Maybin’s absence.