Padres News: Fernando Tatis Jr Believes His Defense Will Be The Difference Maker

Padres superstar is primed to be an elite defender

We're one week away, Padre fans. April 20th will be the day Friar's superstar Fernando Tatis Jr. will return from his suspension. Tatis Jr was suspended for 80 games after using PEDs. 

That is now behind Tatis Jr., and everyone, including Padre fans, cannot wait for his return. Fernando will most likely play the majority of his games in the outfield, as Ha-Seong Kim now has the duties at shortstop. The 24-year-old will be put in right field, and he's been getting reps there in his time with the Padres triple-A affiliate while getting ready for the majors again. 

Tatis Jr. spoke with Padres insider Kevin Acee and said his defense in right field will make an impact on the team.

“I feel like I’m still gonna impact the game a lot that way — controlling the game from right field,” Tatis said recently. “I’m definitely looking forward to it. You don’t really see many outfielders who have a really good arm anymore. I’m trying to be one of those guys. I mean, 30 out of 30 right fielders in the big leagues used to have a cannon. They would control the game on the back end. I can be one of those guys.”

The one-time All-Star has spent most of his time as a shortstop, playing 242 games in his three-year career. Right field, on the other hand, he's only played 20 games out there, starting in 16 games. He has a 1.000 fielding percentage with zero errors, one assist, and 33 putouts for San Diego. 

Here is a sample of how he looked in right field during spring training. 

Fernando Tatis Jr.!!!!!!!!!

What an amazing play by the future GOLD GLOVE Right Fielder!

pic.twitter.com/QUDY9ESPHl

— Devine Sports Gospel (@DevineGospel) March 4, 2023

Looks good to me. We can't wait to see him make an impact on both sides of the ball.