He didn't name names, but Tatis needed only identify his most talented opponent by jersey number and color in Atlanta.

This past week, that especially rang true for star San Diego Padres outfielder Fernando Tatis Jr. As the star at first wasn't selected by the fans to start along with teammate Manny Machado, and didn't trust his chances in the player vote, Tatis Jr. decided to spoil himself by booking a well-earned vacation.

De La Cruz was one of a half-dozen of Tatis’ NL All-Star teammates who spoke Monday about the Padres’ 26-year-old right fielder. On the night his All-Star selection was announced, Tatis was asked if he was surprised.