In a surprising move, Fernando Tatis Jr. started at second base for the Padres against the Rockies. The two-time Platinum Glove Award-winning right fielder made his first career start at the position. The game took place at Petco Park on Saturday night.
Tatis’s Unexpected Position Change
Tatis previously played shortstop before transitioning to the outfield in 2023. He has only one prior appearance at second base, which occurred late in a game on Sept. 6, 2023. However, he did start 10 games there in the Minor Leagues.
Manager Craig Stammen revealed that this move had been in the works. Tatis has been practicing ground balls at second base regularly since his move to the outfield. The angles at second base are similar to those in right field.
Strategic Rationale Behind the Decision
The Padres are currently without an obvious backup at second base, as Sung-Mun Song is on the injured list with a left oblique strain. While Ty France can play second, he is not the ideal option.
The decision to start Tatis at second base was made when the team wanted to give Xander Bogaerts a day off. This meant Jake Cronenworth would shift to shortstop. Stammen said Tatis was the “best option at second base” and the “most fun and exciting option at second base.”
Looking Ahead: Tatis’s Future Role
It is unlikely that Tatis will play second base regularly. He is still primarily viewed as a right fielder. Stammen sees no harm in occasionally moving Tatis around due to his athletic ability.
Stammen stated that Tatis is an amazing athlete capable of handling anything. When Song returns from his rehab assignment with Triple-A El Paso, he will likely become the primary backup at every infield position except first base. For now, the Padres can utilise Nick Castellanos in right field.
Uncertainty Surrounds Tatis at Second Base
There is limited data available on Tatis playing second base. He did not play there during Spring Training. He played one inning at second base in 2023, making a couple of plays.
- Tatis made his first start at second base against the Rockies.
- The Padres wanted to give Bogaerts a day off.
- Tatis has been practicing at second base.
The move to the outfield was initially prompted by issues.