Home / Sports / Padres' Tatis Jr. Shines as MLB's Elite Defensive Outfielder
Padres' Tatis Jr. Shines as MLB's Elite Defensive Outfielder
23 Aug
Summary
- Tatis Jr. ranked as best defensive right fielder in MLB
- Tatis Jr. has robbed 3 home runs, most in MLB this season
- Tatis Jr.'s outfield skills impressive, given he was not an outfielder originally
As the 2025 MLB season reaches its final stretch, the San Diego Padres have remained a force to be reckoned with, keeping pace with the dominant Los Angeles Dodgers. Leading the Padres' charge are their usual stars, Fernando Tatis Jr. and Manny Machado, who have combined for 38 home runs and 130 RBIs.
However, it is Tatis Jr.'s defensive prowess in the outfield that has truly stood out this season. According to Bleacher Report's Joel Reuter, the 26-year-old is currently the best defensive right fielder in Major League Baseball. Tatis Jr. has won both the Gold Glove and Platinum Glove awards for his outfield play in 2023, and he appears poised to add to his trophy collection.
Tatis Jr.'s defensive skills were on full display just this past Wednesday, when he robbed Boston Red Sox slugger Rafael Devers of a home run. This was Tatis Jr.'s third home run robbery of the season, the most in the majors. His exceptional feel for the outfield wall and timing on those plays is particularly impressive, given that the outfield was not his primary position when he first joined the league.
As the Padres continue their push for the playoffs, Tatis Jr.'s elite glove work in the outfield will be a crucial factor in their success. His defensive dominance, combined with his offensive firepower, makes him one of the most well-rounded superstars in the game today.
