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," is a Dominican professional baseball player for the San Diego Padres, playing right field and shortstop. The son of former MLB player Fernando Tatís Sr., he is a prominent figure in Major League Baseball.

Sections (2)

Full Timeline Career & Achievements

2015: Signed by 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 Padres

On June 4, 2016, the Chicago White Sox traded Fernando Tatís Jr., along with Erik Johnson, to the San Diego Padres for James Shields.

2017: Minor League Season

In 2017, Fernando Tatís Jr. played for the Fort Wayne TinCaps and the San Antonio Missions, achieving a .278 batting average with 22 home runs and 75 RBIs.

March 26, 2019: Opening Day Roster

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

April 1, 2019: First MLB Home Run

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

2019: MLB Debut

In 2019, Fernando Tatís Jr. made his Major League Baseball (MLB) debut.

2020: Wild Card Series Home Runs

In Game 2 of the 2020 Wild Card Series against the St. Louis Cardinals, Fernando Tatís Jr. hit two home runs to help the Padres win the series.

July 6, 2021: Unusual High Catch

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

2021: Contract Extension

Before the 2021 season, Fernando Tatís Jr. signed a 14-year, $340 million contract extension with the San Diego Padres.

2021: NL Home Run Leader

Fernando Tatis Jr. finished the 2021 season with a .282 batting average, 97 RBIs, 25 stolen bases, and led the National League with 42 home runs. He also won his second consecutive Silver Slugger Award and finished third in NL MVP voting.

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, also winning his second Silver Slugger Award.