“Can’t Risk Him..”: Real Reason Behind Fernando Tatis Jr.’s Move to Shortstop in Dominican Winter League Revealed

Only a few weeks have passed since the completion of the 2023 MLB season, but the teams have moved over it. They are working for the future and want to utilize the off-season fully. Apart from signings, they are also changing the positions for a better season. Even players have agreed to the need of the hour, promising to give their best in their altered duties. After Bryce Harper, Fernando Tatis Jr. has become the latest player to move to a unique position.

Since Tatis has played as a right fielder in the MLB, his position change to shortstop raised many questions. Though earlier, nothing was clear about the reason behind this move as he was about to start his Dominican Winter League adventure. But the latest update by an MLB insider has cleared it all.

Fernando Tatis Jr.’s Move to Shortstop Fueled by Outfield

A day before, Estrellas, managed by Fernando Tatis Sr., announced that Tatis would play as a shortstop for them in the Dominican Winter League. Everyone thought it was all because of the change in the league. However, the real reason is finally in the open.

As per Hector Gomez, they have taken this move for the player’s safety. Hector shared, “I think it’s a smart move because I’ve seen videos of the condition the outfield is in and it’s a mess, and if that video of the outfield is true we can’t risk him getting hurt out there, per @LOYAL_619.”

Though surprising, this move was necessary, given that any injury at this juncture could jeopardize the future. Plus, Tatis has been under a lot of criticism from fans for the steroid scandal, with many incorporating it into his success on the field. An injury here could have worsened it.

But amidst all the positives, there will be some negatives too. However, with this, Tatis has to leave behind the position that saw him win NL Gold and Platinum Glove as a right fielder. Having settled as a right fielder to adjust to a new role could be a tough task. But it seems Tatis won’t mind it, all thanks to his love for this position.

Tatis Moves to His Favorite Position After a Successful Season as a Right Fielder

Had not been an injury, the 2023 NL best right fielder would have played as a shortstop. However, a shoulder injury forced Tatis Jr. to the right field. It could have been a tough job, but the San Diego Padres’ star excelled. However, the Padres’ star rates SS higher and wants to play at this again. In July this year, acknowledging shortstop as his first love, Fernando said to The San Diego Union Tribune, “probably in the future, I don’t know, I will probably be at shortstop once again.”

Read More: Fernando Tatis Jr. Bonds Over Hitting Session with Father As The Padres Slugger Prepares For Next Season

Though there is no clarity if he will get a chance in the MLB, Tatis will play as shortstop for twenty games. He will also look to make the most of the opportunity. Plus, outstanding performance here could also strengthen his claim to this position for San Diego in the upcoming MLB season. Will that be the case? Only time will tell.