Padres News: Fernando Tatis Jr. Finally Gets A Hit In 7th Cactus League Match
Friars fans can finally reclaim Fernando Tatis Jr. as their golden child once again. The former All-Star has been in the midst of re-establishing himself both in San Diego's lineup and in the baseball world. After a long road back from injuries and suspension, El Niño suited up in the brown and gold again but his struggles were most evident at bat. In his first six Spring Training matches, Tatis failed to even get one hit.
However, that all changed on Friday against the Chicago White Sox as the newest Padres outfielder connected on not one but three pitches in the exhibition match. The first and most important one came immediately in the first inning when he hit a successful grounder that got him to third base. Fans all over felt a weight lifted off of their shoulders.
The 24-year-old would then hit another grounder that got him out in the third inning but bounced back with a powerful double that almost made it over the wall and brought two runners in when the fifth inning rolled around.
If we showed someone these highlights back in 2021, they would be quite confused as to why everybody is so excited and disregard them as usual Tatis plays. However, the game has changed since the franchise cornerstone was available for the team and he's admitted he felt the nerves during his return.
However, one thing he never doubted while he was in his returner's slump was his talent and team manager Bob Melvin doubled down on that trust. Tatis joined San Diego Union-Tribune to chat following the game and his spirits were very high.
"Feels great," said Tatis. "Like I said, just needed a couple of games. And I remember how to hit."
With teammate Juan Soto's slugging looking solid as well, Padres fans should be very excited as the regular season gets closer and closer. All friars stars will be able to compete in official games very soon.
