San Diego Padres: Fernando Tatis Jr. continues historic pace
By David Hill
Fernando Tatis Jr. has emerged as one of the bright young stars in the game. The San Diego Padres shortstop has ascended to the ranks of stardom, a game changing talent whose all around game has made him a building block for years to come. The Padres already rewarded him with a 14 year contract extension, which could end up proving to be a bargain.
On Thursday, Tatis added to his already impressive resume. He became the fastest player in major league history to hit 50 homers and steal 50 bases over the course of his career.
With Fernando Tatís Jr. stolen base in the 5th inning, he became the fastest player (by games) to reach 50 career HR and 50 career SB since 1898 when modern steal rules were adopted.
— ESPN Stats & Info (@ESPNStatsInfo) July 23, 2021
h/t @EliasSports pic.twitter.com/s1eLBBNpNy
San Diego Padres’ shortstop Fernando Tatis Jr. continues impressive start to career
While there were questions about the Padres extending Tatis already, he is showing why the team was so eager to lock him in place. Despite missing time this year due to a shoulder injury that will require offseason surgery, he leads the National League in homers and steals, as he is a favorite for the NL MVP award.
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The biggest issue has been keeping Tatis healthy. He had missed time in his rookie season due to hamstring and back injuries, and his shoulder issues have cropped up occasionally this season although he has needed just one stint on the Injured List.
If Tatis does stay healthy, it is entirely possible that the Padres are watching one of the bright stars of the present and future come into his own. His blend of power and speed is already remarkable, but having that profile at short makes him such a unique player.
At just 22 years old, Tatis still has room to improve. He has continued to develop his approach at the plate, being more patient and waiting for pitches to drive. There is still more power in the bat as well as he continues to physically mature, leading to the hope that he can be a generational talent. If the start to his career is any indication, that will be the case.
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San Diego Padres shortstop Fernando Tatis Jr. made history as he became the fastest player in MLB history to reach 50 homers and 50 steals. This may only be the beginning.