Full Breakdown
Fernando Tatis Jr. Prepares for World Baseball Classic Amid Spring Training Developments
2/28/2026, 12:23:00 PM
Tatis Jr. Eager for International Competition
Fernando Tatis Jr. is gearing up for the World Baseball Classic (WBC) after participating in Cactus League games with the San Diego Padres. Following a recent game against the Colorado Rockies, Tatis expressed enthusiasm about representing the Dominican Republic, stating, “I feel great... I’m ready to go.” Tatis, who missed the last WBC due to a performance-enhancing drug suspension, is particularly looking forward to playing in front of his home crowd. The Dominican team, featuring notable players like Manny Machado, Juan Soto, and Vladimir Guerrero Jr., will play exhibition games against the Detroit Tigers before commencing pool play in Miami against Nicaragua.
Sung-Mun Song Settles into New Role
Sung-Mun Song, a 29-year-old Korean import, is finding his footing with the Padres. After securing his first hits in the Cactus League, Song noted that his confidence has improved significantly. He remarked, “I got my first hit yesterday and then, like, my pressure is kind of gone.” With several key players, including Tatis and Machado, departing for the WBC, Song anticipates increased playing time and is preparing to adapt to various positions, including shortstop and outfield, despite limited experience in those roles.
Managerial Adjustments During Spring Training
As the Padres navigate spring training, manager Craig Stammen is temporarily absent to attend his sister's wedding. In his place, bench coach Randy Knorr will assume managerial duties, ensuring that pitching coach Ruben Niebla can focus on his responsibilities without interruption. Stammen emphasized the importance of maintaining continuity in coaching, stating, “We don’t need to have (bullpen coach Ben) Fritz running in from the bullpen.”
Pitching Staff Updates
Reliever Jason Adam is progressing in his recovery from a quad injury, throwing approximately 20 pitches in a live bullpen session. Adam reported sitting at 91-93 mph with his fastball, indicating a positive trajectory towards returning to full form by opening day. He is currently participating in pitcher’s fielding practice with a cautious approach to avoid exacerbating his injury.
Ownership Bid Clarification
In ownership news, a report from The Athletic clarified that Joe Kudla, CEO of Vuori, and NFL Hall of Famer Drew Brees are not leading a formal bid to purchase the Padres. Instead, they are considering partnering with one of the five groups that have submitted bids.
Upcoming Events
The Padres will continue their spring training schedule with notable games, including a back-field exhibition against a KBO team and a matchup against the Seattle Mariners. As the team prepares for the regular season, the performance of players like Tatis and Song will be closely monitored, particularly in light of their roles in the upcoming World Baseball Classic.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I got my first hit yesterday and then, like, my pressure is kind of gone,” — Sung-Mun Song, San Diego Padres Infielder
- “We don’t need to have (bullpen coach Ben) Fritz running in from the bullpen.” — Craig Stammen, San Diego Padres Manager
This article encapsulates the current state of the San Diego Padres as they prepare for both the World Baseball Classic and the upcoming MLB season, highlighting key player developments and managerial adjustments.
