One Year After Returning From Steroid Suspension, Fernando Tatis Jr. Finally Returns to Original Shortstop Position

Once the accusation of using steroids comes in, a comeback is always monumental. That was the case for Fernando Tatis Jr. who returned to MLB after over a year of suspension. His 80-game suspension led to the San Diego Padres missing him a great deal. But with his return, there came a mixed bag of reactions. 

Be it from the fans or the former chairman of the Padres, Tatis Jr. had to go through quite brash comments during his return. Keeping aside all that, it has also been seen that he and his father, Fernando Tatís Sr., a baseball legend himself, have taken part in practice sessions. All this to see his son get back to the SS position. But this time, his father had some news to give. 

Fernando Tatis Sr. Has News About His Son

As per @hgomez27 who reposted @RichardBazil’s tweet, Tatis Sr. explained to the media what his son’s position in the upcoming game was going to be. The tweet was captioned, “Fernando Tatis Jr. will play in the shortstop in the Dominican Winter League with @EOBASEBALLCLUB, says his father”. With that, one can expect to see him in his original position that he has yearned for. 

Since his return after the successful completion of his minor league rehab stint, it gave one a pretty good idea of how he turned out for the team. Though he didn’t return as the same player as he used to, he still has the charm to his name. However, he did not return to the Padres’ everyday shortstop. This decision was a result of his shoulder injuries, that saw him fit playing in the outfield instead.

The team could maneuver well with his excellence at his new position this year, and Bebo. came off as a versatile player. However, he has mentioned his desire to return to his original position sooner rather than later. After his return, Tatis Jr. demonstrated to everyone in the organization his willingness to put in the necessary work. Finally, this significant attitude has paid off.

Fernando Tatis Jr. About Wishing To Play Shortstop

As per the SD Union-Tribune this July, “That was one of the key factors why his(Fernando Tatis Jr.) career lasted a little longer, because he was able to play in every position”. Considering his versatility, the team could accommodate his desire to play shortstop again. While he also played right field initially, he was mature enough to understand his areas of improvement as a shortstop that he could learn from.

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He said, “I definitely have better results (in right field). I feel like at shortstop it was more (that) I was immature. I had so many tools, and I didn’t know how to control my tools”. No doubt he has been a significant player for the Friars, but the defensive power he displayed has established his position in the team stronger. With that, the Padres set the foundation for a hopeful 2024.

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