Fernando Tatis Jr. unflinching in his belief that San Diego Padres will win the 2023 World Series
San Diego Padres shortstop Fernando Tatis Jr. sounded bullish about his team's chances of lifting the World Series trophy next season. Tatis is eyeing a comeback after missing the entirety of the last campaign.
The San Diego Padres star endured a horrific 2022, which saw him miss more than half of the season with a broken wrist. All hopes of returning to action by August went up in smoke as he was suspended by the MLB for 80 games after testing positive for Clostebol.
In an interaction with fans during the Padres Fan Fest, Fernando Tatis Jr. was asked which team they might face during the World Series. His reply was everything the Padres' faithful gathered at Petco Park wanted to hear.
''It doesn't matter, (be)cause we're still gonna win it all.''
“Who do you think you’ll face in the World Series?”
Tatis: “It doesn’t matter because we still gonna win it all” https://t.co/AvnlyoYh2l
Fernando Tatis Jr. underwent surgery on his shoulder and left wrist within the first few months of his suspension. He is set to miss the first 20 games of the Padres' 2023 MLB campaign.
The 24-year-old also spoke about how much he missed the game, and his willingness to shift to any position to accommodate new signings.
"I more just want to prove myself in the field, just get back to the field with my boys. I definitely miss that fire, just being in the jungle with them."
He added:
"I've got to talk to my manager," Tatis said. "But I'm open. This is a great team that we have. It's a great roster that the front office put together. I feel like everyone is on the same page, and that page is winning. So whatever it takes, we're going to do it."
Fernando Tatis Jr. secured an All-Star selection in 2021 and has two Silver Slugger awards to his name. Friars fans will be hoping one of the game's brightest prospects will have a comeback season to remember.
Fernando Tatis Jr. putting in the hard yards during the offseason
Last season, Padres pitcher Joe Musgrove did not mince words after Fernando Tatis Jr.'s suspension was announced.
“He’s a young kid. He’s going to learn his lessons or whatnot. But ultimately, I think you got to start showing a little bit of remorse and you got to start showing us that you’re committed to it and you want to be here.”
It seems Tatis Jr. has managed to impress Musgrove with his dedication to getting ready for the new Padres campaign.
“He’s having to face something that he never has or never wanted to face..But he’s handling it really well. He’s been around Petco (Park) every day and the work ethic he’s putting in, he’s going to be ready..''
Fernando Tatis Jr. is one of the game's brightest prospects, and the San Diego Padres have certainly not held back in bolstering their lineup. There is no doubt the Friars are going to be a very entertaining team next season.