The San Diego Padres can't catch a break. Just days after completing a potential franchise-changing move, MLB suspended Fernando Tatis Jr for 80 games, ruling him out of this season and forcing him to miss the first 32 games of the next campaign.
The superstar tested positive for Clostebol after allegedly taking a medication to treat ringworm. Needless to say, that scandal took a significant toll on his already controversial reputation.
Tatis Jr. Shares Heartfelt Apology
Tatis Jr. took some time to process the news and his emotions. He finally addressed the press on Tuesday to express his remorse and share a heartfelt apology to the fans, his teammates, and the organization:
“I would like to start to by saying how truly sorry I really am,” Tatis told the media. “I’m really sorry. I have let so many people down. I have love, so much love for people. And I failed them. I failed all of them. I have failed to the front office of the San Diego Padres, (team chairman) Peter Seidler, A.J. Preller. I have failed every fan of this city. I have failed to my country. I have failed my family, parents. I’m really sorry for my mistakes. I was seeing how my dreams have turned into my worst nightmares. There’s no other one to blame but myself.”Machado Won't Get Into Details
When asked about whether Tatis had also reached out to his teammates, Padres star Manny Machado claimed he wouldn't get into details about what was said or not but credited Tatis for being accountable for his actions.
“What stays in the clubhouse, stays in the clubhouse. It’s between grown men," Machado said. But I think moving forward — he is very emotional — he knows what’s coming for him and what’s in front of him."He's There For His Teammate
Of course, Tatis' situation was disappointing to his teammates as well, but Machado believes he'll grow from this experience and won't turn his back on him:
“And you know, he is gonna continue the grudge as a person, as a player, and as a teammate and as a family man, the slugger added. "So, I’m going to be here for him and I am gonna back him up. And whatever he needs, he has someone here to talk to and help him in whatever way.”Padres Need To Find Consistency
The Padres hoped Tatis Jr. would be back on the field by now. They added Josh Hader, Brandon Drury, Josh Bell, and Juan Soto to make a deep postseason run, but the star infielder won't be able to join them.
Bob Melvin's team has been far from impressive since that massive haul at the trade deadline, struggling against lesser teams and failing to reach their potential. Also, they must turn things around as the Brewers are right on their toes in the Wild Card race.
]]>The Inquisitr
