MLB

Padres star Fernando Tatis Jr. offers ‘cryptic’ comment on the best player in the league

San Diego Padres star Fernando Tatis Jr. has been selected to participate in this year's MLB All-Star Game. Ahead of the anticipated matchup, Tatis Jr. made a cryptic remark about the potential MVP of the game.

Fernando Tatis Jr. #23 of the San Diego Padres looks on during a game against the Philadelphia Phillies at Petco Park on July 12, 2025 in San Diego, California.
© Sean M. Haffey/Getty ImagesFernando Tatis Jr. #23 of the San Diego Padres looks on during a game against the Philadelphia Phillies at Petco Park on July 12, 2025 in San Diego, California.

San Diego Padres‘ standout Fernando Tatis Jr. is making headlines this MLB season with an impressive performance. Boasting 16 home runs and 42 RBIs, Tatis Jr. has been instrumental in helping the Padres keep pace with the Los Angeles Dodgers in the fiercely competitive NL West standings.

His impressive stats and electrifying play have earned him a spot on this year’s coveted MLB All-Star roster. This annual showcase brings together the elite from both leagues, offering a unique opportunity to engage with rival talent while thrilling fans in the stands.

Ahead of the much-anticipated clash between the National League and American League All-Star teams, Tatis Jr. addressed the media. He discussed his own stellar performance and progress this season, and when queried about who he considers the league’s top player today, he opted for a playful response.

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Choosing to keep it lighthearted, Padres star sent out a cryptic message on social media rather than naming names directly. “I think that’s obvious (laughs). He’s my rival, so I’m not going to mention his name. It’s the number 17 from the blue team (laughs),” he said, clearly alluding to Shohei Ohtani.

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Tatis Jr. reflects on his journey with the Padres

Over the course of six years with the Padres, Tatis Jr. has seen his perspective on the game evolve. In an interview with MLB Network, Tatis shared insights into his transformation, including his return to peak performance after a year-long hiatus.

MLB Video: Fernando Tatis Jr. blasts his first homer of 2025 against the Braves

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“It’s an honor to wear this jersey,” Tatis Jr. expressed. “San Diego has embraced me wholeheartedly, and I treasure every aspect of being here. The city, the fans, everyone has been incredible. I’m proud to follow in the footsteps of great players who have worn this jersey before me.

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Ohtani speaks ahead of the MLB All-Star game

As the spotlight shines brightly on Ohtani in this year’s MLB All-Star Game, he took to The Pat McAfee Show to discuss various facets of his career. Ohtani delved into his future, his return to pitching form, and a heartfelt moment with his idol from Japan.

“I grew up watching Ichiro [Suzuki] play in the All-Star Game,” Ohtani revealed. “Meeting him was a dream come true.” Ohtani’s passion for baseball continues to captivate fans, who eagerly anticipate his performance in Tuesday’s All-Star Game.

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