Padres demote player after Ty France decision

The San Diego Padres reinstated veteran infielder Ty France from the paternity leave list on Sunday, optioning infielder Mason McCoy to Triple-A El Paso to clear the corresponding roster spot.

France missed three days following the birth of his child and returns to give manager Craig Stammen a dependable right-handed bat and steady presence at first base as San Diego pushes through the final stretch of the regular season.

Across 138 games this year, the 32-year-old has posted a .294 batting average, .873 OPS, 20 home runs and 63 RBIs, making him one of the more consistent offensive contributors in the Padres lineup alongside Luis Arraez and Manny Machado .

McCoy stepped in during France's absence, providing defensive coverage at second base and shortstop. The 31-year-old has appeared in 19 games for San Diego this season and gives the organization a versatile depth option they can call upon again if needed.

He returns to El Paso with the understanding that another opportunity could come before the season ends depending on roster needs.

Getting France back is straightforward but important for a Padres team currently battling for a National League wild card spot. His combination of consistent contact, pop and experience at first base gives Shildt exactly what he needs in the middle of a lineup that has to perform at its best over the next two weeks.

San Diego cannot afford to have any drop-off in production at a position as important as first base during this stretch, and France's return ensures that will not be an issue as the club makes its final push toward October.