Insider says Padres likely aren’t trading Fernando Tatis Jr.

There were rumors that the San Diego Padres could possibly trade Fernando Tatis Jr. during the offseason. The Padres shut the idea down, but some wondered if a Tatis trade could still end up happening in the future. MLB insider Bob Nightengale does not see it happening anytime soon, something he explained during an appearance on Foul Territory.

“No, I think Tatis is there now, particularly with the new ownership, I’d be surprised if they even listened to many calls in the winter,” Nightengale said. “He’s certainly not going anywhere now.”

The thought process behind a trade would be to move his big contract for multiple players who could help the team win now and in the future. Trading him would not signal a complete rebuild. However, a trade coming to fruition has not seemed especially realistic in the past, and Nightengale’s comments further cement the idea that Tatis is likely going to remain in San Diego.

The Padres are currently tied with the Los Angeles Dodgers for first place in the National League West division. Tatis, a 27-year-old outfielder, is hitting .265/.347/.313 across 23 games played. He is swinging the bat fairly well, but Tatis has yet to hit a home run this season. Overall, he has only four extra-base hits.

Nevertheless, Tatis features one of the highest ceilings in the sport. The Padres want to compete for a championship, and Tatis is going to play a crucial role in their success.

Anything is possible, but the chances of Fernando Tatis Jr. being traded anytime soon are slim.