Padres Superstar Believes SD Made Clear Statement to LA in 2022

The beginning of a new California powerhouse.

The San Diego Padres continued their momentum from last season as they took down the Los Angeles Dodgers in their first meeting of 2023. Fernando Tatis Jr. got them going early as he connected on two huge home runs in the third and the fifth inning that sent Clayton Kershaw out of the game early.

Their job is not done yet, obviously, as they have two more games left in the series but it's certainly the ideal start for them. San Diego's players will be asked about the history and rivalry between the two NL West clubhouses all weekend and the popular question as of now has been the 2022 NLDS.

In case anybody needs their memory refreshed, the Friars took down the 111-win Dodgers in just four games despite not having anywhere as elite of a roster as they do now.

A lot of great moments on air @10News in 2022, but for me, anchoring the newscast moments after the @Padres eliminated the @Dodgers to win the NLDS was near the top. Going to be even more fun covering a San Diego World Series win in 2023! #HappyNewYear pic.twitter.com/lnFjeHzVO5

— Marie Coronel (@MarieCoronelSD) December 31, 2022

Tatis was one of those stars that was not present for that series and the entire playoff run that ended with San Diego just games away from the World Series. His presence has clearly made a difference as they compiled a 9-4 record with him back in the lineup.

He continues to grow more comfortable playing with the squad again after having not suited up since the 2021 season. He spoke on exactly what it meant for the Padres taking down the superior LA clubhouse.

Fernando Tatis Jr. was asked how much he’s missed the Padres/Dodgers games.

Tatis: “I’ve missed it a lot…it’s gonna be fun.” pic.twitter.com/IdoIR7R2dp

— 97.3 The Fan (@973TheFanSD) May 5, 2023

"They made a statement in the postseason" said Tatis. "Obviously, they battled through the season but at the end of the day, what matters is what happens in the postseason. Padres came up last year but this is a brand new year and let's see what happens."

(Via 97.3 The Fan)

We hope to see Nando continue to see this type of success and make his presence felt after missing last season.