At San Diego City College’s baseball practice, one particular red glove stands out on the field. The glove carries an inscription that reads “23 Tatis Jr.,” immediately drawing attention to its owner—Daniel Tatis, the younger brother of San Diego Padres star Fernando Tatis Jr.
Daniel, who plays as a third baseman and catcher for the Knights, acknowledges the inevitable comparisons to his older brother but emphasizes his individuality.
“We have similarities, but we are not the same,” Daniel said. “There is definitely some pressure that comes with the name, but at the end of the day, it’s just me on the field. I focus on doing my job and giving my best effort.”
With a last name so deeply connected to professional baseball, expectations for Daniel at San Diego City College are naturally high. However, he embraces his own journey and doesn’t let the family name define him.
“People expect a lot from me, but Fernando and I are two different people,” he explained. “I just focus on being myself.”
One of the advantages of having a Major League Baseball superstar for a brother is the wealth of advice and support he receives.
“Fernando tells me to keep working hard, to always give my best, and to stay true to myself on the field,” Daniel shared.
Daniel’s work ethic has impressed those around him, including his head coach, Chris Brown.
“Daniel comes in and puts in the work every day,” Brown said. “He’s just like any other community college player, working hard in multiple positions and swinging the bat really well for us right now.”
Though Daniel was born in Florida, he grew up in the Dominican Republic. After visiting Fernando in San Diego, he decided to move to the city permanently to pursue his baseball career.
His journey to San Diego City College began with a family connection—his aunt had heard positive things about the Knights’ coaching staff.
“The catching coach and the head coach did a great job recruiting me before the fall season,” Daniel recalled.
Coach Brown recognizes Daniel’s unique background, noting that while the school has welcomed many talented players over the years, Daniel brings a different level of professional influence due to his family ties.
“In my 25 years here, we’ve had some outstanding players come through,” Brown said. “But we’ve never had a player with this kind of professional tutelage.”
Much like his older brother, Daniel also wears the number 23 on his jersey, carrying on the Tatis legacy in his own way.