San Diego Padres right fielder Fernando Tatis Jr. Orlando Ramirez-USA TODAY Sports

Fernando Tatis Jr. looks like he finally has his swagger back

By Michael Carpenter | Last updated Jun 12, 2024 8:29 AM ET

Once seen as one of the brightest young stars in baseball after finishing third in the National League Most Valuable Player voting in 2021, San Diego Padres outfielder Fernando Tatis Jr. has seen his popularity wane after a suspension and shoulder injury put his career on hold.

Returning to the field in 2023, Tatis Jr. looked like a shell of himself after the long layoff.

Last season the 25-year-old slashed .257/.322/.449 with 25 home runs, 78 RBI and 29 stolen bases while playing in 130 games. He also won the National League Platinum Glove award in his first full season as an outfielder. However, those numbers were below his 2021 numbers, when he slashed .282/.364/.611 with 42 home runs and 97 RBI.

Entering 2024, he looked to regain his superstar status and seems to be on his way.

Tatis Jr. is currently on an MLB-leading 17-game hit streak and has been the hottest hitter in the NL during that time.

Fernando Tatis Jr. extends his hitting streak to 16 with his 3rd home run in 4 games! pic.twitter.com/fANzm5kYkH
— MLB (@MLB) June 11, 2024

With a .283/.358/.477 slash line, 13 home runs and 35 RBI in 71 games played, Tatis Jr. has shown his ability to drive the ball all over the field while possessing top-of-the-line defense in right field.

Not only has he brought a spark to the Padres lineup, but Tatis Jr. has also gained bragging rights amongst his family.

Earlier this season he passed his father, Fernando Tatis Sr., on the all-time home run list and he did so in only his fifth season.

The Padres currently sit at 36-35 and in second place in the National League West. They will need their former MVP candidate to continue to show he is back to his superstar capabilities if they hope to have a chance at a postseason appearance in 2024.

With Tatis Jr. locked into a contract in San Diego until the 2034 season, the most important thing to the Padres is seeing a fully healthy superstar who will be the face of their franchise for the next decade.

Michael Carpenter

Michael is a California kid, living in Arizona as a graduate of The Cronkite School of Journalism, Forks Up. He believes Yadier Molina will be in the Hall, and Dez caught it. Michael njoys spending his free time with his amazing wife and two beautiful daughters or playing video games. You can find him on Twitter @_MCSports.

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