Padres' Tatis Jr. Shines with Platinum Glove Outfield Defense

New manager praises the star's versatility and athleticism as key to the team's 2026 success

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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Fernando Tatis Jr. has seamlessly transitioned from shortstop to the outfield, quickly establishing himself as one of Major League Baseball's premier defenders. His outstanding performance has earned him Platinum Glove awards, highlighting his defensive skills as the Padres prepare for a promising 2026 season. New Padres manager Craig Stammen praised Tatis' exceptional athleticism and adaptability, noting that he could excel at nearly any position on the field.

Why it matters

Tatis' defensive prowess in the spacious Petco Park outfield is seen as a key factor in the Padres' championship aspirations. His ability to impact the game with his glove, arm, legs, and bat makes him one of the most valuable two-way players in the league.

The details

Padres president of baseball operations AJ Preller emphasized the significance of Tatis' move to the outfield, particularly given the dimensions of Petco Park. Preller remarked that Tatis' defensive skills, combined with his offensive contributions, make him one of the best players in the game and a crucial component in the team's quest for a championship.

  • Tatis has won Platinum Glove awards in 2023 and 2025.
  • Tatis finished eighth in National League MVP voting in 2025, posting a .268 batting average, an .814 OPS, 25 home runs, and 32 stolen bases.

The players

Fernando Tatis Jr.

A three-time All-Star and one of the best two-way players in Major League Baseball, known for his exceptional defensive skills and versatility.

Craig Stammen

The new manager of the San Diego Padres, who praised Tatis' athletic abilities and adaptability to play any position on the field.

AJ Preller

The president of baseball operations for the San Diego Padres, who highlighted the importance of Tatis' defensive skills in the spacious Petco Park outfield.

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What they’re saying

“He's an amazing athlete. He could probably play any position. We can put him anywhere and Fernando would probably figure it out.”

— Craig Stammen, Padres Manager (theconwaybulletin.com)

“Fernando is one of the best players in the game, he's one of the best two-way players in the game. Two platinums (gloves) now in the last three years... Usually you win championships with defense.”

— AJ Preller, Padres President of Baseball Operations (theconwaybulletin.com)

“I think having Tatis, especially in Petco, it's a big right field, lot of area to cover, he can impact the game with his glove, his arm, his legs and his bat. There's very few guys in the game who can do that.”

— AJ Preller, Padres President of Baseball Operations (theconwaybulletin.com)

What’s next

The Padres are hopeful that Tatis will continue to elevate the team's competitiveness with his outstanding defense and dynamic playmaking as they gear up for the 2026 season.

The takeaway

Tatis' defensive prowess, combined with his offensive contributions, make him one of the most valuable two-way players in baseball. His ability to excel in the spacious Petco Park outfield is seen as a key factor in the Padres' championship aspirations for the 2026 season.