Padres News: Bob Melvin Gives Rave Review on Fernando Tatis Jr

El Niño is back like he never left.

Spring Training serves as a first look for Padres fans and those associated with the team to see how Fernando Tatis Jr. has bounced back from all of the adversity over the past two years. 

Multiple injuries, surgeries, off-field drama, and the looming questions about whether or not he would be the same franchise piece when he returned were all on Tatis' plate when he missed the entire 2022 season. However, if one thing is guaranteed it's that team manager Bob Melvin believes the young star is coming back with the same arsenal.

Melvin spoke to media at Spring Training and shared his thoughts after watching Tatis Jr. participate in numerous workouts.

"It looked like he never left, you know, he was never hurt," said Melvin. "He feels great with the shoulder right now, the wrist probably takes a little more time."

Tatis endured two serious injuries in the past few years to his shoulder and wrist that cost him time on the field. These were very important for him to take care of considering his play style and rumored move to outfield this year.

Melvin also spoke on the questions surrounding whether or not Tatis should've gotten surgery for his injuries.

"I think it really benefited him to have that surgery because that's something that could've been a problem at any particular time", said Melvin. "To get past that right now and not have to think about it, I think that benefits him and gives him more piece of mind."

Tatis has been captured already putting in work with his new teammate Juan Soto in the outfield. He looks very happy to be back and focused on adjusting to the new position.

Fernando Tatis Jr. and Juan Soto outfield drill content for your enjoyment #padres pic.twitter.com/zsUBN3m0WW

— Allison Edmonds (@aedmondstv) February 14, 2023

Mark your calendars Padres fans as Tatis is eligible to return to official games with the team in April if all goes according to plan.