Fernando Tatis Jr is Healthy; Could an MVP Season Be on the Way for Padres?

San Diego Padres star Fernando Tatis Jr.  was electric upon entering the big leagues. After a few early road bumps, he is again poised to take the league by storm in 2024.

Tatis was suspended at the end of the 2022 season for using a performance-enhancing drug, which forced him to miss the first chunk of the 2023 season while completing his suspension.

Despite the distraction, Tatis was able to put together a good 2023 season. However, it was a down year compared to his high standards.

In 141 games for San Diego, Tatis Jr. hit .257 with 25 home runs and 78 runs batted in. He spoke about how last season went, and what he is looking forward to doing this year.

“Last year it was more getting back on track, seeing how I was gonna bounce back after all those surgeries, (seeing how) my left arm was feeling during a long season. And it was a battle. … But now this year is totally different (in terms of) preparation and what I’m aiming for.”

— Fernando Tatis Jr. via the San Diego Union-Tribune

Tatis Jr. is now healthy and ready to go. He wants to get back to being his normal self, which includes being a perennial MVP candidate for the Padres.

If he can put together a healthy year, there is no reason why Tatis Jr. can't be in the running. His abilities allow him to thrive on the field, while his energy can captivate the audience.

“I feel way better than I did last year. Talents plus work ethic; this offseason’s work ethic, it feels like this is gonna be special.”

— Fernando Tatis Jr. via The San Diego Union-Tribune

While it remains to be seen what his final numbers will be for the year, his impact on the team shouldn't be overstated. The Padres need him to perform well if they have any hope of being competitive this season.