Fernando Tatis Jr. made a request to the San Diego Padres, but it was slashed. Padres, for whom this winter has been quite slow, have come off as strict about the spring training timelines. While the club wishes to redeem a sub-par 2023, Tatis, seeking an “extension,” does his part too, just not in the MLB.

The 25-year-old is working hard by playing for the Estrellas Orientales in the Dominican Winter League. Amid that, he makes a request that might keep him in his native country a bit longer than usual. His father believes, “It’s good for him.” What does San Diego think of this?

Fernando Tatis Jr.’s Request Doesn’t Align With the San Diego Padres

Héctor Gómez tweeted some intel about the Dominican Winter League’s playoffs. He shared that, as per sources, “Fernando Tatis Jr. and his father requested #Padres once again for an extension to continue playing in the Dominican Winter League’s playoffs.” While this ask might not be much considering that Tatis is the biggest name this year in the LIDOM, the Friars declined. 

Gómez shared MLB’s response in another tweet. It read, “The San Diego Padres have called Fernando Tatis Jr. to let him know that he can’t continue playing winterball for @EOBASEBALLCLUB during the current Lidom playoffs, per @MannyRG04.” This means one thing for the Dominican shortstop and slugger: spring training in San Diego is all set to begin on schedule. That makes one wonder: what brought #23 to the LIDOM?

Late in December, El Nino shared with the San Diego Tribune why he decided to play in his home country’s winter league. He believes that it brings one back to the roots. He went on to add, “I feel like myself,” and he is grateful for the fact that it was on those grounds that he became a really good baseball player. Playing in his hometown is simply a way to give back. His father, Tatis Sr., has played a monumental part in this.

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More About the LIDOM and Tatis Jr.’s Role

Sr. Tatis, who is a baseball legend himself, manages the Estrellas Orientales of the Dominican Winter League, which happens from late October through January. The 50-game regular season is followed by an 18-game playoff battle of the four standing teams. Eventually, the champion of the series is decided basebest-ofbest-of-nine match between the top two contenders. That said, what effect did a change in on-field position have on Tatis Jr.?

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During the 2018–19 season of LIDOM, Tatis Jr. took part too. Considering his current play, Tatis can lead the team to its fourth pennant this year. It is worth noting that El Nino has also started playing shortstop for Estrellas from right field, which earned him the Golden Glove. While his future in his hometown is bright, his upcoming season in the MLB clashes with it. Either way, it will be fun to watch Tatis Jr. play.