Diamondbacks' Jose Fernandez hits 2 homers in MLB debut

The 23-year-old third baseman becomes 7th player since 1900 to accomplish the feat.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 7:22am

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In his first major league game, Arizona Diamondbacks third baseman Jose Fernandez hit two home runs, becoming just the 7th player since 1900 to accomplish that in their MLB debut. Fernandez's heroics came in the bottom of the 8th inning against veteran closer Kenley Jansen.

Why it matters

Hitting two home runs in a debut game is an incredibly rare feat, showcasing Fernandez's immense talent and potential as a young player. This performance will instantly make him a fan favorite and raise expectations for his future with the Diamondbacks.

The details

Fernandez, a 23-year-old third baseman, stepped up to the plate in the bottom of the 8th inning against four-time All-Star closer Kenley Jansen. In a pressure-packed moment, Fernandez launched two home runs to lead the Diamondbacks to victory in his very first MLB game.

  • Fernandez hit the two home runs in the bottom of the 8th inning on April 1, 2026.

The players

Jose Fernandez

A 23-year-old third baseman making his MLB debut for the Arizona Diamondbacks.

Kenley Jansen

A four-time MLB All-Star closer who Fernandez hit the home runs against.

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What they’re saying

“I was just trying to stay calm and focused in that big moment. I can't believe I was able to hit two homers in my first game - it's a dream come true!”

— Jose Fernandez

The takeaway

Fernandez's historic debut performance will instantly make him a fan favorite in Arizona and raise expectations for the young third baseman's future in the majors.