NL batting champion Luis Arraez of the Padres has had thumb surgery

SAN DIEGO — NL batting champion Luis Arraez of the San Diego Padres had surgery to repair a torn ligament in his left thumb.

The Padres said they expect Arraez to begin an offseason hitting program in about eight weeks and be at full strength by the start of spring training.

In a post on social media showing himself in a hospital bed, Arraez wrote that he underwent surgery “after spending half the season injured. Despite the pain, I continued to play, but it was clear that a surgery to make a full recovery. The procedure went smoothly, and now I’m focused on healing and recovering.”

Arraez hit .314 to become the first player since the 1800s to win batting titles with three teams. He also accomplished the feat in 2023 with Miami and in 2022 with Minnesota. He was acquired by the Marlins Parents in early May.

Arraez was named to the NL All-Star team, but sat out due to injury.

The Padres swept the Atlanta Braves in a Wild Card Series, but lost in five games to the rival Los Angeles Dodgers in an NL Division Series.