Tatis Jr. dons specially designed cleats to honor late Padres owner
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SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) — Padres superstar Fernando Tatis Jr. on Thursday honored the team’s late owner and chairman Peter Seidler with specially designed cleats titled “R.I.P. Peter.”
Pictured on the cleats was Seidler’s face throughout the shoe, as well as his signature quote about Tatis Jr., “I BELIEVE IN HIM,” according to the brands Xample and Surgeon, two of Tatis Jr.’s partners. The engraved leather used in the design was inspired from the team’s homebase, featuring a laser engraved mosaic that resembles elements of San Diego’s coastline.
Tatis Jr. and Seidler had a close relationship.
“I feel they came out just perfect,” Tatis said. “It’s part of our story; he’s part of my story. The guy was with me, holding my back in my darkest moment and cheering me the most when I was in the highest. Everything we’re doing this season is for Peter, and for the years to come, too.”
Last year, Seidler passed away at the age of 63 in November. It came a few months after the team announced the two-time cancer survivor underwent an unidentified medical procedure.
Seidler’s widow, Sheel, honored her late husband by throwing the ceremonial first pitch, while Padres President of Baseball Operations and General Manager A.J. Preller wore the late owner’s trademark mustache.
Over the weekend, thousands of Padres fans, former players, current players, friends and family members packed Petco Park to celebrate his life and legacy.
Seidler would’ve been proud of his team on Thursday as they beat the San Francisco Giants, 6-4.
The Associated Press contributed to this story.
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