San Diego Padres: Fernando Tatis Jr. gives Trevor Bauer subtle jab

Apr 24, 2021; Los Angeles, California, USA; San Diego Padres shortstop Fernando Tatis Jr. (23) reacts as he crosses the plate after hitting a solo home run off the second pitch of the game from Los Angeles Dodgers starting pitcher Trevor Bauer (27) in the first inning at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 24, 2021; Los Angeles, California, USA; San Diego Padres shortstop Fernando Tatis Jr. (23) reacts as he crosses the plate after hitting a solo home run off the second pitch of the game from Los Angeles Dodgers starting pitcher Trevor Bauer (27) in the first inning at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports

Trevor Bauer made headlines during spring training when he decided to pitch an inning with one eye closed against the San Diego Padres. The idea was to make himself uncomfortable so that he could work on various things during the game. However, it was also something that the Padres would not forget.

The memory of Bauer pitching with one eye was particularly ingrained in Fernando Tatis Jr.‘s memory. When he belted his first homer of the night against Bauer, he made certain to celebrate in a particular way.

San Diego Padres shortstop Fernando Tatis Jr. takes jab at Trevor Bauer

Tatis had another impressive night, hitting two homers for the second consecutive game, both against Bauer. His first came on the second pitch of the game, then he victimized the Dodgers’ pitcher again in the sixth. However, Bauer and the Dodgers had the last laugh in taking a 5-4 victory.

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For his part, Bauer did not mind the one eye celebration. Nor did he mind how Tatis used the same Conor McGregor strut when crossing home plate after hitting his homer in the sixth. One has to figure that, given Bauer’s tendency towards self promotion and various stunts, opponents would look to find ways to mock those celebrations.

San Diego Padres: Fernando Tatis Jr. gives Trevor Bauer subtle jabMoments like that are positives for the game. The players are showing their personalities, having fun while competing. The days of the stolid, emotionless player are coming to an end as the younger players are embracing the emotional highs and lows.

That is particularly important during a series such as this. The Padres and Dodgers are set to be contending for the division for years to come, a fierce rivalry in the making. Having battles such as Tatis and Bauer will only add more spice to what will already be a fun matchup to watch.

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San Diego Padres shortstop Fernando Tatis Jr. has been on fire over the last couple of days. He made sure Trevor Bauer knows about that hot streak.