This year didn’t begin well for Fernando Tatis Jr., who was unable to play in the 2022 MLB regular season due to a fractured wrist he picked up in the offseason. When he was finally getting close to come back, the Padres star received another blow.
A few weeks ago, MLB suspended Tatis Jr. for 80 games after testing positive for Clostebol, a performance-enhancing substance in violation of the league’s drug policy. That means he is not seeing the ballpark this year, and will also miss games of 2023.
On Tuesday, the 23-year-old shortstop addressed the media for the first time since his suspension. Far from making any excuses, Tatis Jr. took responsibility and apologized for what happened.
Fernando Tatis Jr. breaks silence on MLB suspension
“I’m truly sorry, I am,” Tatis said, via ClutchPoints. “I have let so many people down… I failed the front office, San Diego Padres. I failed every fan in this city, I failed my country, I failed my family, my parents. I’m really sorry for my mistakes. I’ve seen how my dreams have turned into my worst nightmares… There is no one else to blame but myself.”
Tatis’ return would have come in a great moment for San Diego. Having landed Juan Soto and Josh Bell before the trade deadline, the Padres head into the final stretch of the regular season with high aspirations.
Unfortunately, Tatis Jr. won’t be joining their powerful lineup this year. However, it’s good to see that at least he took accountability. After all, that’s the first step to make things different next time.
