SAN DIEGO, CA – In 2022, Fernando Tatis Jr. was one of the most electrifying stars in baseball—until a PED suspension sidelined him for 80 games and cost him part of the 2023 season. Many wondered if the young superstar’s reputation—and talent—would ever bounce back.
Well, they have. And then some.
Fully healthy and eligible for a full 2024 season, Tatis has returned as a defensive wizard in right field and an offensive threat in the heart of the Padres’ lineup. His OPS is back over .850, and he’s already stolen over 20 bases and hit 15+ home runs.
Even more impressively, Tatis has become one of the best defensive outfielders in the game. A converted shortstop, he now ranks in the top 5 in Outs Above Average among right fielders. He’s making diving catches, throwing runners out at third, and showing maturity both on and off the field.
Teammates and coaches say he’s more focused, more disciplined, and ready to lead. The Padres have playoff aspirations again—and if Tatis keeps playing like this, he’ll be the centerpiece of San Diego’s next great run.
