The Padresâ lineup card featured a significant change on Saturday: Fernando Tatis Jr., second base.
The three-time All-Star has played second just once previously in the big leagues, logging an inning on Sept. 6, 2023, against the Phillies. He also made 10 starts there in the minor leagues, most recently in 2017.
Tatis, who is off to a slow start at the plate with a .519 OPS, has exclusively been a right fielder since the start of 2023. He went 0-for-4 in Fridayâs 5-2 win over the Rockies.
Castellanos Draws Start in Right Field
With Tatis at second base, Nick Castellanos will make his first start in right field against Rockies right-hander Ryan Feltner. Castellanos, who signed a one-year deal in February after being released by the Phillies, has mainly seen time at designated hitter for San Diego.
Tatis, who is 2-for-6 lifetime against Feltner, is hitting second behind left fielder Ramon Laureano. Tatis is off to a dreadful start, slashing .189/.274/.245 with zero home runs and five RBI in 53 at-bats this season.
As for the rest of the lineup, Xander Bogaerts is sitting, with Jake Cronenworth starting in his place at shortstop. Miguel Andujar is at DH.
The Padres, who will start right-hander German Marquez against his former team, are 8-6 following back-to-back walk-off wins over Colorado.
Tatis in Rare Company With Multiple Gold Gloves
Tatisâ shift to second base is a surprising move by new Padres manager Craig Stammen. The 27-year-old didnât play there in spring training, and his last start as an infielder was in 2022. He had no issues transitioning to the outfield, winning his second Gold Glove Award last season after leading all National League right fielders last season with plus-15 Defensive Runs Saved.
Heâs one of five Padres to win multiple Gold Gloves, joining Trent Grisham (2020, 2022), Steve Finley (1995-96), Tony Gwynn (1986-87, 1989-91), and Dave Winfield (1979-80).
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