“It’s absurd.”
Fernando Tatis Jr. (24, San Diego Padres) started on the 6th (Korean time) as the first hitter in left field in a match against the Triple A Sacramento River Cats under the San Francisco Giants in the ‘2023 Minor League’.
Tatis Jr. hit a solo home run over the left wall as the leadoff hitter in the top of the 5th inning with the team trailing 1-5. On this day, 1 hit in 2 at-bats (1 home run), 1 RBI, 2 walks and 1 run contributed to the team’s 8-5 victory.
Currently, Tatis Jr. is recovering in the minor leagues. Prior to the start of the season last year, he had to undergo surgery on his left wrist due to a motorcycle accident.
During the rehabilitation period, Tatis Jr. was embroiled in a controversy over ‘taking a banned substance’. He was suspended for a total of 80 games (48 games in the 2022 season and 32 games in the 2023 season) for taking clostebol, which helps muscle development.
At the time, Tatis Jr. said, “I found out belatedly that the drug I was taking for the purpose of treating ringworm (skin disease) contained the ingredient. He should have fully checked for banned substances, but he didn’t. I want to apologize to the club officials, my teammates, the whole of Major League Baseball, and the fans. There is no excuse for my mistakes. However, I never respected the baseball I love or tried to improve my performance,” he explained, but the reaction was cold.
Tatis Jr. will not be able to play after the start due to suspension. However, players who have been suspended for more than 50 games are playing in accordance with the provisions of the Major League Secretariat that allow players to play in the minor leagues for 15 days. 안전놀이터
In response, reporter Dan Clark, who reports major league news, expressed dissatisfaction on personal SNS on the 7th. He said, “It is absurd that Tatis Jr. was suspended from the major leagues for taking a banned substance, and he is rehabilitated by playing minor league games. Isn’t it really funny?” he raised his voice.
Pitcher Cade McClure, who gave Tatis Jr. a home run, also criticized Tatis Jr. on his personal SNS, saying, “A cheater who hits a home run while suspended (due to a banned drug).”
Meanwhile, Tatis Jr. is steadily improving his body despite the criticism towards himself. He will join San Diego when his 20-day suspension ends.