Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Fernando Tatis Jr. Still Seeks First 2026 Homer Despite Elite Contact

A shortage of loft, not a shortage of power, best explains the slump.

Overview

  • Tatis has started every game for San Diego this season and remains homerless even as the Padres are 19–11 and within reach of the NL West lead.
  • Statcast shows elite contact quality for Tatis, including an average exit velocity near 94.5 mph, a hard-hit rate around 65%, and a strong barrel rate.
  • ESPN’s review highlights a very low average launch angle for Tatis, which has produced too many ground balls and few balls with carry.
  • Tatis acknowledged frustration and said he is putting in extra work, telling The Athletic he is hitting early, taking more batting practice, and trying to figure it out.
  • Outlets cite different yardsticks for the drought’s length, variously listing at-bats, plate appearances, or days without a homer, which has muddied the exact count.