The San Diego Padres are navigating an uncertain offseason following the unexpected exit of manager Mike Shildt and the anticipated sale of the franchise. As part of that transition, the front office is expected to explore ways to reshape the payroll.
That process could include dealing players such as Jake Cronenworth or Nick Pivetta, and in recent weeks even Fernando Tatis Jr. has surfaced in trade rumors. Those whispers naturally sparked concern among Padres fans.
However, MLB Network analyst Joel Sherman delivered a clear and reassuring message regarding Tatis’ future in San Diego.
Padres’ Fernando Tatis Jr. is not going anywhere
“I believe strongly the Padres are not trading Fernando Tatis Jr,” Sherman said. “They want to continue to try and go for it. They want to find a couple of starting pitchers in this marketplace… But they’re a team that wants to win, and A.J. Preller loves this player.”
Sherman’s comments strongly suggest that Tatis will remain with the Padres this winter, despite speculation tied to potential payroll reductions. While trimming salary has fueled rumors, the organization appears firmly committed to keeping its franchise star.
From a purely asset-management standpoint, moving Tatis could help restock a farm system thinned by aggressive trades at the 2025 deadline. Still, such a move would severely damage San Diego’s ability to compete in 2026 and beyond.
Tatis will be just 27 years old in 2026, and his résumé already includes three All-Star selections along with multiple Gold Glove and a Platinum Glove. Players of that caliber, especially at his age, are not easily replaceable regardless of what a trade package might look like.
He remains signed through 2034 on a $340 million contract, making it clear that a contending Padres team should have little reason or motivation to consider moving him.
Last season, Tatis posted a .268 batting average with an .814 OPS, turning in another strong overall campaign. Although he has not quite matched the historic level of his 2021 season, he has consistently ranked among Major League Baseball’s elite since debuting as a rookie in 2019.
For Padres fans, Sherman’s report offers welcome reassurance. All signs point to Fernando Tatis Jr. continuing to wear a San Diego uniform, at least into next season, as the franchise pushes forward with its competitive ambitions.