Dominican · San Pedro de Macorís, Dominican Republic · Born 2 January 1999Dominican professional baseball shortstop and outfielder known for his explosive power, speed, and electrifying defensive plays in Major League Baseball.
Born in San Isidro, Dominican Republic, to former major league shortstop Fernando Tatis Sr., the younger Tatis grew up immersed in baseball culture. He moved to the United States as a teenager to pursue his baseball career, signing with the Chicago White Sox as an international free agent in 2015. The White Sox traded him to the San Diego Padres in 2016 as part of a deal for pitcher James Shields. Tatis made his major league debut with San Diego in 2019 and immediately established himself as one of baseball's most dynamic players. Playing primarily shortstop initially before transitioning to the outfield, he combined exceptional power with speed and defensive versatility. His breakout 2020 season saw him finish second in National League MVP voting while helping lead the Padres to their first playoff appearance since 2006. The following year, he signed a 14-year, $340 million contract extension, one of the largest deals in baseball history. Tatis's career hit a significant obstacle in 2022 when he received an 80-game suspension for testing positive for a performance-enhancing substance. The suspension, combined with injuries, limited his playing time and sparked controversy. He returned to action in 2023, transitioning full-time to right field and demonstrating his resilience by posting strong offensive numbers. Despite the setbacks, Tatis remains one of baseball's most electrifying talents. His combination of power, speed, and athleticism represents a new generation of versatile players who can impact games in multiple ways. At the Padres, he has become the face of the franchise's resurgence and their efforts to compete for championships. His Dominican heritage and charismatic playing style have made him a significant figure in MLB's efforts to grow the game internationally, particularly in Latin America, where he serves as an inspiration to young players.
Dynamic shortstop with exceptional power and defensive skills
How They Played
Athletic shortstop with power hitting and flashy defensive plays
Lasting Impact
Emerged as one of MLB's brightest young stars before PED suspension
Career Honours
- 2x Silver Slugger Award
- 2x MLB All-Star
| Team | Period | Games | Jersey |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Diego Padres | 2019–2024 | 448 | #23 |
Dominican Athletes