PEORIA, Arizona. – If there was a scene that the Fathers wanted to avoid this spring, it was probably this one.
Fernando Tatis Jr. left Tuesday’s Cactus League game against the Reds in the third inning with discomfort in his left shoulder, after a difficult game on a ground ball for the shortstop. It will be reevaluated on Wednesday, the team said.
The Padres ‘star shortstop positioned himself on his right to make a play with his backhand, then made a long shot through the diamond to retire the Reds’ second baseman, Jonathan India. Tatis’s throw was strange, and he immediately seemed to be in some discomfort – although it is important to note that it was Tatis’s non-throw shoulder that was affecting him.
Tatis was assessed by manager Jayce Tingler and a team coach and left the field shortly thereafter. After half an entry into the coach’s office, Tatis left Peoria Stadium accompanied by a member of the team’s medical team.
Obviously, the Fathers cannot be without Tatis, who signed a record 14-year extension last month. He raided all spring, posting 1,092 OPS in 11 games.
Tatis lost five games earlier this month due to a disease unrelated to COVID. Then, he lost a few more days after a heavy headache on the home plate left him a little hurt, although the team never revealed a specific injury. It is unclear whether Tuesday’s shoulder disease is related.
The Fathers have other options for playing shortstop, in case Tatis misses any time during the regular season. Manny Machado has a long history there, and both Jake Cronenworth and Ha-Seong Kim – who must split time on second base – can play shortstop too.
But, considering his ridiculous production in 143 career games – .301 / .374 / .582 with 39 homers and 27 steals – any injury from Tatis would be overwhelming for a team of Padres with World Series ambitions and the Dodgers to contend with. in the National League West.
San Diego is already dealing with injury issues related to central defender Trent Grisham (hamstring injury) and receiver Austin Nola (fractured left middle finger). Your status for Opening Day remains in question.
The club did not offer details of a schedule for Tatis.