Padres' Tatis Jr. Borrows Machado's Golden Glove for Second Base Debut

San Diego's star outfielder makes smooth transition to new position with help of teammate's prized mitt.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 1:41am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A fractured, cubist-style painting depicting Fernando Tatis Jr. playing second base for the San Diego Padres, with sharp geometric shapes and planes of color representing the dynamic action of the game.Tatis' positional versatility and Machado's golden glove help the Padres' young star make a smooth transition to second base.San Diego Today

San Diego Padres star outfielder Fernando Tatis Jr. made his first career starts at second base over the weekend, borrowing teammate Manny Machado's gold-tinted glove to help with the transition. Tatis, a two-time Gold Glove winner in the outfield, looked comfortable at his new position, helping turn a key double play and going 5-for-9 at the plate as the Padres won both games.

Why it matters

Tatis' move to second base is a significant lineup change for the Padres, who are looking to get their best hitters in the lineup while resting their regular shortstop Xander Bogaerts. Tatis' ability to adapt to the new position could be crucial for the Padres' success this season as they look to contend in the NL West.

The details

Tatis, who had been taking grounders at second base during pregame warmups, asked to borrow Machado's gold-tinted glove to help with the transition. The two-time NL Gold Glove winner in the outfield looked comfortable at his new position, helping turn a key double play in Saturday's 9-5 win over the Rockies. Tatis also went 5-for-9 at the plate over the two games, sparking the Padres' lineup.

  • Tatis made his first career starts at second base on Saturday, April 12, 2026 and Sunday, April 13, 2026.
  • The Padres won both games, extending their winning streak to five games.

The players

Fernando Tatis Jr.

The Padres' star outfielder and two-time Gold Glove winner, who made his first career starts at second base over the weekend.

Manny Machado

The Padres' third baseman, whose gold-tinted glove Tatis borrowed to help with the transition to second base.

Xander Bogaerts

The Padres' regular shortstop, who was rested over the weekend to allow Tatis to play second base.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I can play wherever. I'm just here to play baseball and be a good baseball player.”

— Fernando Tatis Jr.

What’s next

The Padres will continue to evaluate Tatis' performance at second base and determine if the position change will be a long-term solution for the team.

The takeaway

Tatis' willingness to adapt to a new position and his successful debut at second base showcases his versatility and commitment to helping the Padres win. The move could pay dividends for the team as they look to contend in the NL West.