Fernando Tatis Jr. Begins Rehab Assignment; Returns To Game Action

His 80-game suspension is nearing an end. Fernando Tatis Jr. is scheduled to return to the San Diego Padres lineup on April 20th. Tuesdsay night, he began a minor league rehab assignment, after missing the entire 2022 season and having surgeries on his wrist and shoulder. 

Fernando Tatís Jr.'s first hit on his rehab assignment 👏 @MiLBpic.twitter.com/9hFP9j50M5

— B/R Walk-Off (@BRWalkoff) April 5, 2023

Playing for the El Paso Chihuahuas, the Padres' Triple-A affiliate, Tatis was leading off and playing right field. His first hit was a go-ahead RBI single in the 6th inning. He also walked twice and scored a run.

When he returns to the Padres, the former All-Star shortstop will be an outfielder, after the Friars' blockbuster free agent signing of Xander Bogaerts this past offseason.

Tatis played in spring training games for San Diego last month, and posted a .273 average in 50 plate appearances, with two home runs, seven RBIs and three stolen bases.

The 24-year-old superstar was suspended last summer for having a PED in his system, while he was still rehabbing from wrist surgery following a motorbike accident the previous offseason.

When he was last seen playing in the majors, in 2021, Tatis batted .282 with a .975 OPS, a league-leading 42 bombs, plus 25 steals and 97 RBIs.