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Fernando Tatis Jr. was one of the San Diego Padres' most influential players in 2025, ending the 2025 regular season with a .268 batting average, 25 home runs and 71 RBIs.
Posting to X on Sunday, MLB insider and Padres fan Ryan Cohen backed the Dominican to take his game to the next level and become the most valuable player in the NL in 2026.
"hung w Fernando on friday night and he was so sweet/fun to chat with. couldn’t have been nicer. 2026 nl mvp comin up can’t wait" Cohen posted to X
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Several fans disagreed with Cohen's take, and left comments taking shots at Tatis.
"Falling for the good guy act lmao. We all know mvp is out of reach for him just like a World Series" a fan wrote
"Let’s make sure he’s free of ringworm this year 💉" another fan commented
"You guys been saying Tatis NL MVP 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, and now 26." another fan replied
"Lmao unless hes striking batters out and belting 50hrs, hes never going to be the NL MVP" another fan responded
"Yall been calling for his mvp since 24’ lmao" another fan shared
"At least you know he’s not winning a WS in 2026 🙏🏽🙏🏽" another fan posted
Fernando Tatis Jr. wins second career Platinum Glove award
While the jury is still out on Fernando Tatis Jr.'s credentials for an NL MVP award, his defensive prowess is unidsputed at this point. After another outstanding season in right field, the 26-year-old was adjudjed to be the best defensive player in the NL on Friday, awarded a Platinum Glove for the second time in his career.
His 16.3 SABR Defensive Index score and 15 defensive runs saved were key stats that ultimately helped him secure the prestigious prize.
Along with the Platinum Glove, Fernando also earned himself his third career All-Star selection back in July, making 2025 quite a successful year for him on an individual level.
On the collective front, however, it was a disappointing season yet again for the Padres. Despite giving the LA Dodgers a stiff challenge in the NL West, it was their arch-rivals that ended up winning both the division and the World Series, while Fernando Tatis Jr. and company had to contend with more another heartbreaking early exit from the postseason.
