The COVID-19 pandemic was pretty much the storyline around MLB in 2020 and it’s starting to trend in that direction this year. Fernando Tatis Jr. of the San Diego Padres is the latest to be affected by the still-prominent virus.
According to Dennis Lin of The Athletic, Tatis has tested positive for COVID-19. Meanwhile, teammates Jurickson Profar and Jorge Mateo are currently engaged in contact tracing.
Lin noted earlier in the day that an unnamed player who was at least partially vaccinated tested positive for COVID-19 late last month. He did not report on the individual until the Tatis news become public record.
It’s possible that Fernando Tatis Jr. is the victim of a breakthrough positive test. This happens when a vaccinated individual still comes down with the virus. While it’s extremely rare, New York Yankees third base coach Phil Nevin has reportedly tested positive after being vaccinated.
Tatis, 22, just recently signed a massive contract extension with the Padres. Before being placed on the injured list, he was hitting .240 with nine homers and 14 RBI in 26 games. It remains to be seen how long the shortstop will be sidelined.
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