Tatis Jr. Returns with a Grand Slam to Boost the Padres
After overcoming COVID-19, Fernando Tatís Jr. proved his worth by hitting a crucial grand slam in the San Diego Padres’ victory against the Arizona Diamondbacks. The player, who missed some games due to the illness, returned with force, ensuring that the baseball world knew he was ready for the postseason. Tatís Jr.’s four-run homer in the fourth inning of Friday night’s game changed the course of the match, keeping the Padres in the fight for the home playoff series.Tatís Jr. missed the entire series against the Brewers due to the virus. While his teammates celebrated qualifying for the playoffs, Tatís watched from home. Now, with his triumphant return, the player is ready to celebrate more victories. Tatís’ home run against pitcher Zac Gallen was his 24th home run of the season, erasing a 2-1 deficit. The player, known as “El Niño”, enjoyed the moment while the crowd at Petco Park celebrated his feat.“I feel much better today and hope to feel even better in the coming days,” declared Tatís after his fourth grand slam in his career.
Fernando Tatís Jr.
The illness interrupted a productive season for Tatís, who has demonstrated consistency and durability. He has driven in 70 runs for the third time, with 157 hits and 109 runs scored, playing in 153 games. Thanks to Tatís’ grand slam and Mason Miller’s save, the Padres are still in the fight to host the Cubs in their wild card series next week. Tatís trusts in the Padres’ possibilities in the playoffs, highlighting his previous performance, with six home runs and 12 RBIs in 13 postseason games. His postseason OPS is 1.328.“Welcome back Tatí, right?”, commented Padres manager Mike Shildt. “He’s always had power. There was a time when he didn’t show it, but we believe he’s a dangerous player, regardless of the power he includes”.
Mike Shildt
“I feel like I’m in a great moment. Playoff baseball is definitely different and I look forward to that adrenaline,” he affirmed.
Fernando Tatís Jr.
