Fernando Tatis Jr. Remains a Padre

Fernando Tatis Jr. is not leaving San Diego. At the winter meetings this week, Padres general manager AJ Preller was clear about his intentions, dismissing rumors about trading the star outfielder. “We’re not discussing a trade for him,” Preller stated. “You could call him ‘untouchable’ if you prefer to.”

Preller, known for making big moves, seemed resolute in keeping Tatis on the team. “He’s one of the top players in baseball, a two-time platinum medalist,” he added, highlighting Tatis’s pivotal roles in various games and series. “Regardless of all the changes we’ve made, he’s at the center of it. If you want to label him as ‘untouchable,’ go ahead.”

Tatis, who will turn 27 in January, has been the focus of trade talks as the Padres navigate a tight salary situation following several high-profile acquisitions for the upcoming seasons.

In the 2025 season, Tatis posted a batting average of .268 with an OPS of .814 and hit 25 home runs, ranking eighth in the NL MVP voting.

Additionally, Tatis secured the Platinum Glove Award for being the best fielder in the National League last season. However, he still has nine years and $286 million left on the contract he signed prior to the 2021 season.

Earlier this week, Padres Chairman John Seidler mentioned that the team’s payroll, which was about $224 million last season, was likely to stay around the same level in 2026.

This announcement about payroll came shortly after Seidler indicated that the ownership group might explore a sale of the franchise. This decision emerged in the wake of ongoing disputes within the family over control of the team, particularly following the passing of John Seidler’s father, former chairman Peter Seidler, two years ago.