Padres' Tatis Jr. Borrows Machado's Glove to Play Second Base

Star shortstop shifts to new position, helps Padres turn key double play

Apr. 13, 2026 at 2:59am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting the motion and energy of a baseball double play, with fragmented shapes and overlapping planes of green, brown, navy, white, and orange representing the field, players, and uniforms.Tatis' versatility on display as he shifts to second base and helps turn a crucial double play for the Padres.San Diego Today

In a surprising move, San Diego Padres star shortstop Fernando Tatis Jr. played second base during Saturday's game against the Colorado Rockies, borrowing teammate Manny Machado's golden glove for the position. Tatis helped turn a crucial double play in the top of the seventh inning to preserve the Padres' lead.

Why it matters

Tatis is one of the most dynamic players in baseball, known for his power and athleticism at shortstop. His willingness to shift to a new position mid-game shows his versatility and commitment to helping the Padres win, even if it means playing out of his normal spot.

The details

With the Padres leading in the top of the seventh, Rockies batter Tyler Freeman grounded to Padres shortstop Jake Cronenworth, who threw a relay to new second baseman Tatis Jr. Tatis then tossed the ball to first baseman Gavin Sheets to complete the inning-ending double play.

  • The play occurred in the top of the seventh inning on Saturday, April 12, 2026.

The players

Fernando Tatis Jr.

The Padres' star shortstop, known for his power and athleticism, shifted to second base during Saturday's game against the Rockies.

Manny Machado

The Padres' third baseman, whose golden glove Tatis borrowed to play second base.

Jake Cronenworth

The Padres' shortstop who made the initial throw on the double play.

Gavin Sheets

The Padres' first baseman who caught Tatis' throw to complete the double play.

Tyler Freeman

The Rockies batter who grounded into the double play.

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What they’re saying

“I haven't won gold over here, so I need to win it first.”

— Fernando Tatis Jr.

What’s next

It remains to be seen if Tatis will continue to play second base or shift back to his natural position of shortstop in future games.

The takeaway

Tatis' willingness to play a new position mid-game showcases his team-first mentality and desire to help the Padres win, even if it means stepping outside his comfort zone.