Rengifo plans to meet with a team physician before deciding on a date for his knee surgery, but the 29-year-old is likely to remain out through at least the early part of the 2027 season as a result of the operation. After struggling to a .534 OPS over 57 games with Milwaukee to begin the season before he was released in late June, Rengifo found more success upon getting a change of scenery in San Diego. Before going down with the knee injury, Rengifo had settled in as a near-everyday player while serving in a utility role for the Padres, slashing .291/.375/.409 with four home runs, three stolen bases, 19 runs and 17 RBI across 145 plate appearances. Rengifo is set to become a free agent this winter, but given his success in a limited sample, the Padres could look to re-sign him on another short-term deal.

Rengifo was removed early from Saturday's game against the Rays after spraining his right knee in the seventh inning. The injury will require the 29-year-old to miss a minimum of 10 days. Since joining the Padres in late June, Rengifo has slashed .291/.375/.409 over 145 plate appearances with four homers, three steals, 17 RBI and 19 runs. Samad Taylor (oblique) was activated from the IL to replace Rengifo on the active roster.