Fernando Tatis Jr.’s Dad Steps In To Save His Season
Fernando Tatis Jr. finds inspiration in familiar mentor, his father, for a standout season with the San Diego Padres.
WILLIAM FROSTJUN 14, 2024 6:03 PM EDT
The San Diego Padres kicked off the 2024 season with a mission to move past their disappointing 2023 campaign. With a revamped roster, they were counting on key players to step up, especially outfielder Fernando Tatis Jr.
Tatis Jr., once the face of the franchise, had a rough 2023 season marred by a drug suspension and wrist surgery. Determined to bounce back, he put in significant work during the offseason. His efforts paid off initially, as he started the 2024 season strong. However, he soon hit a slump.
Instead of panicking, Tatis Jr. turned to a trusted mentor—his father, Fernando Tatis Sr. With his father’s guidance, he refocused on the basics and regained his confidence.
“I had a good start, the first three weeks,” Tatis said. “And then I start hitting the ball to people. When that happens, you’re trying to get a little bit more because you hit a line drive to everybody, and you don’t want to keep doing that. And that’s when you get in trouble and you get (away) from yourself. I definitely got lost a little bit. Thank God that I have the dad that I have. He came in at a clutch time, and we just went back to basics and going back to trusting myself.”
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This season, Tatis Jr. is hitting .280 with 13 home runs and 35 RBIs, playing a crucial role in the Padres’ strategy. Thanks in part to his contributions, the team holds a 37-35 record, placing them second in the National League West division.
As the Padres aim to make a significant impact this season, they will rely heavily on Tatis Jr. to maintain his form. With his father’s support, there’s every reason to believe he can continue to perform at a high level.