Rise to Success: Career Highlights of Fernando Tatís Jr.

How Fernando Tatís Jr. built a successful career. Explore key moments that defined the journey.

Fernando Tatís Jr., nicknamed "El Niño" and "Bebo", is a Dominican professional baseball player. He currently plays right field and shortstop for the San Diego Padres in MLB. He is the son of former MLB player Fernando Tatís Sr. Known for his exciting style of play, Tatís Jr. is considered one of the most dynamic and talented young stars in baseball.

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Full Timeline Career & Achievements

2015: Signed by the Chicago White Sox

In 2015, Fernando Tatís Jr. was signed by the Chicago White Sox as an international free agent from the Dominican Prospect League.

June 4, 2016: Traded to the San Diego Padres

On June 4, 2016, the White Sox traded the 17-year-old Fernando Tatís Jr. and Erik Johnson to the Padres for James Shields before Tatís had played a professional game.

2017: Played for Fort Wayne TinCaps and San Antonio Missions

In 2017, Fernando Tatís Jr. played for the Fort Wayne TinCaps and the San Antonio Missions, achieving a combined batting average of .278 with 22 home runs and 75 RBIs. Defensively, he made 30 errors and had a .936 fielding percentage.

March 26, 2019: Made Padres Opening Day roster

On March 26, 2019, the Padres announced that Fernando Tatís Jr. made their Opening Day roster.

April 1, 2019: First Major League Home Run

On April 1, 2019, Fernando Tatís Jr. hit his first major league home run.

2020: Grand Slam Controversy

In the 2020 season, Fernando Tatís Jr. was part of a four-game grand slam streak for the Padres. He stirred controversy when he swung at a 3-0 pitch while already ahead by seven runs against the Texas Rangers, leading to discussions about baseball's unwritten rules.

July 6, 2021: Media attention for a high catch

On July 6, 2021, Fernando Tatís Jr. received media attention for an unusually high catch, which appeared to resemble a double jump typically seen in video games.

2021: Signed 14-year contract extension with the Padres

In 2021, Fernando Tatís Jr. signed a 14-year, $340 million contract extension with the San Diego Padres, making it the third-richest contract in MLB history at the time. He had an agreement with Big League Advance, so a portion of his future earnings would go to them.