Padres News: Gary Sanchez Thinks Fernando Tatis Can Hit 500 Career Home Runs

The young superstar is well on his way already!

After another home run by Fernando Tatis Jr. for the Padres in their most recent series in Colorado, teammate and catcher Gary Sanchez had a lot of praise to lobby on the young outfielder. 

In fact, Sanchez stated that Tatis was well on his way to reaching a hallowed benchmark for any batter's Hall of Fame trajectory. 

“He’s obviously a talented player,” Sánchez said. “With the talent he has, he can easily reach 500. I’m excited for him. Glad to be his teammate, and I’m just along for the ride to be his teammate.”

via Kevin Acee, San Diego Tribune

Tatis Jr.'s 19th dinger of the season moved him past the century mark for his young career and the slugger doesn't appear to be slowing down any time soon. 

Tati keepin' it 💯 @tatis_jr | #BringTheGold pic.twitter.com/o7rIT2jgZI

— San Diego Padres (@Padres) August 2, 2023

After serving the last portion of a lengthy suspension from use of a banned substance, Tatis Jr. has come out this year looking for blood against the rest of the league. 

Through 89 games thus far, the slugger has compiled 3.9 WAR at a new defensive position in right field. 

At the plate, Tatis Jr. has an OPS of .820 to go along with his 19 home runs, 17 stolen bases and a .270 average proving to the baseball world that he can truly do it all. 

Gratitude was on his mind when asked about the achievement as Tatis Jr. became just the 12th active player to reach the 100-homer mark before his age-25 season. 

“There is a lot of work behind that. I appreciate all the people that have helped me, given me small tips on what is hitting. This for them and for all the (work) we have put in together.”

via Kevin Acee, San Diego Tribune

Padres fans are more than happy to welcome back their young superstar into the mix and can't wait to see what else is in store for him.