SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — On Friday, Fernando Tatis Jr. added two more at-bats and played four innings in right field, marking his third consecutive day of action in the Cactus League. Afterward, he jogged to the center field clubhouse at Salt River Fields, gear in hand, ready for his flight to the Dominican Republic for the World Baseball Classic.
“I feel great,” Tatis stated, reflecting on his performance of 3-for-12 with three walks after going 0-for-2 in a 3-2 loss to the Rockies on Friday. “I’m in a great spot. My swing feels right, my body feels amazing, and I’m ready to compete.”
The Dominican Republic team will kick off its pool games in Miami, Florida, but first, they’ll play two exhibition games against the Detroit Tigers next week at Estadio Quisqueya Juan Marichal.
Tatis last played in front of his home country’s fans in 2023 for Estrellas alongside his father, Fernando Tatis, the hitting coach for the Dominican team. Previously, Tatis was ineligible for the World Baseball Classic due to a PED suspension.
“I’m really looking forward to it,” Tatis said about the upcoming exhibitions in the Dominican Republic. “Playing with such talented players will be exciting, and I’m thrilled to represent my country.” Among the stars joining him are current teammate Manny Machado, former teammate Juan Soto, and childhood friend Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
The exhibitions are scheduled for Tuesday and Wednesday in the Dominican Republic, with the pool play starting on Friday in Miami against Nicaragua. “It’s going to be a fantastic baseball game,” Tatis noted. “I’m eager for the competition, and I believe it will bring out the best in all of us.”
Weight Lifted
A sense of relief washed over Sung-Mun Song when he hit a line drive for a base hit on Thursday, followed by another one on Friday. The 29-year-old Korean import seems to be settling in with his new team. “Getting my first hit yesterday really eased the pressure,” he shared through an interpreter. “I’m getting along well with my teammates, and these past two days have been good.” Song mentioned that he’s feeling increasingly confident after hitting against quality pitchers.
