Fernando Tatis Jr.

Fernando Gabriel Tatis Jr., known as “El Niño,” is a Dominican professional baseball player for the San Diego Padres. Born January 2, 1999, in San Pedro de Macorís, Dominican Republic, he is the son of former Major League infielder Fernando Tatis Sr. Tatis Jr. bats and throws right-handed, is listed at 6 feet 3 inches and 217 pounds, and made his MLB debut with San Diego on March 28, 2019. He originally signed with the Chicago White Sox as an international amateur in 2016 before being traded to the Padres organization later that year.

Tatis quickly established himself as an electric offensive and defensive talent, combining right-handed power, speed, aggressive baserunning and a strong throwing arm. He began his major-league career primarily at shortstop and later became a prominent right fielder. In 2023, his first full season in the outfield, he won both a Gold Glove Award and the National League Platinum Glove. He earned those honors again in 2025, adding to his reputation as a dynamic two-way player. During the 2026 season, the Padres also used him regularly at second base, reflecting his defensive versatility.

The Padres signed Tatis to a 14-year contract through the 2034 season in February 2021. His career has also included an 80-game suspension issued in August 2022 after a positive test for a banned substance, followed by his return to the Padres in April 2023. As of September 29, 2026, MLB lists Tatis as an active San Diego player. His combination of athleticism, flair and positional flexibility continues to make him one of baseball’s most recognizable young stars.