San Diego Padres star Fernando Tatis Jr. has been one of baseball’s hottest hitters in June, batting .359 with a .390 on-base percentage and .513 slugging percentage.
Despite his surge at the plate, the Padres continue searching for more offense as injuries have depleted key parts of their lineup.
Manager Craig Stammen has resisted assigning Tatis Jr. permanently to either second base or right field, valuing the flexibility he provides.
However, with the team’s offensive struggles continuing, San Diego may eventually need to settle him into one position, allowing the front office to target a specific bat on the trade market.
Tatis Jr., who originally developed as a shortstop before becoming a Gold Glove-caliber outfielder, has spent time at second base following a concussion suffered by Jake Cronenworth.
Stammen has alternated Tatis between the infield and right field while giving opportunities to Sung-Mun Song at second base, though Song’s offensive production has been limited.
The Padres’ injury problems extend beyond Cronenworth. Outfielder Ramon Laureano recently underwent season-ending hip surgery, creating another significant hole in the lineup.
With Laureano sidelined, Gavin Sheets is expected to handle most of the duties in left field.
San Diego’s front office appears to be waiting for greater clarity on Cronenworth’s recovery before making a major move.
Once the team determines whether he can return this season, the Padres may be in a better position to pursue either a second baseman or corner outfielder who can provide much-needed offense.
The priority is clear: improve run production from the lower half of the batting order.
Whether that solution comes via an infielder or outfielder, the Padres may need to act quickly before their preferred trade targets are no longer available.
