How Fernando Tatís Jr. built a successful career. Explore key moments that defined the journey.
Fernando Tatís Jr., nicknamed "El Niño," is a Dominican professional baseball player for the San Diego Padres. Primarily playing right field and shortstop, he's the son of former MLB player Fernando Tatís Sr. Known for his exciting and dynamic style of play, Tatís Jr. quickly became one of baseball's brightest young stars, demonstrating exceptional hitting ability and defensive skills. He has garnered significant attention for his performance and potential, establishing himself as a key player for the Padres.
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, starting his professional baseball journey.
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June 4, 2016: Traded to the San Diego Padres
On June 4, 2016, the Chicago White Sox traded Fernando Tatís Jr., along with Erik Johnson, to the San Diego Padres in exchange for James Shields.
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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 .278 batting average with 22 home runs and 75 RBIs.
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March 26, 2019: Made Opening Day Roster
On March 26, 2019, the Padres announced that Fernando Tatís Jr. made their Opening Day roster, marking a significant milestone in his career.
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April 1, 2019: First Major League Home Run
On April 1, 2019, Fernando Tatís Jr. hit his first major league home run, a memorable moment in his debut season.
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2019: MLB Debut
In 2019, Fernando Tatís Jr. made his Major League Baseball debut, marking the beginning of his professional career.
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2020: Wild Card Series Performance
During the 2020 Wild Card Series, Fernando Tatís Jr. hit two home runs in Game 2 against the St. Louis Cardinals, contributing to the Padres' series victory. However, they lost in the next round against the Dodgers.
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2020: Statistical Achievements
In 2020, Fernando Tatís Jr. led the NL in power-speed number and achieved high rankings in several offensive categories, showcasing his exceptional hitting abilities.
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2020: Silver Slugger Award
In 2020, Fernando Tatís Jr. was awarded the Silver Slugger Award, recognizing his offensive performance.
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July 6, 2021: Unusual High Catch
On July 6, 2021, Fernando Tatís Jr. received media attention for an unusually high catch in a game, which appeared to resemble a double jump typically seen in video games.
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2021: Signed Contract Extension
Before the 2021 season, Fernando Tatís Jr. signed a 14-year, $340 million contract extension with the San Diego Padres, marking one of the richest deals in MLB history at the time.
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2021: Successful Season and MVP Vote
Fernando Tatís Jr. concluded the 2021 season with a .282 batting average, leading the NL with 42 home runs, winning his second consecutive Silver Slugger Award, and finishing third in NL MVP voting.
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2021: All-Star and Contract Extension
In 2021, Fernando Tatís Jr. was named an All-Star and secured a 14-year, $340 million contract extension with the Padres.
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April 13, 2023: Three Home Run Game
On April 13, 2023, while playing for the Padres' Triple-A affiliate El Paso Chihuahuas, Fernando Tatís Jr. recorded a three home run, eight-RBI game, showcasing his offensive power.
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2023: Moved to Right Field
In 2023, Fernando Tatís Jr. moved to right field and improved his defense
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2023: Gold Glove Award
In 2023, Fernando Tatís Jr. won a Gold Glove Award, recognizing his defensive skills.
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