Who is Jose Fernandez? Diamondbacks third baseman becomes 7th MLB player in 126 years with 2 homers in debut

Jose Fernandez is an emerging MLB talent who made headlines with a historic debut for the Arizona Diamondbacks. The young third baseman became just the seventh player in Major League Baseball (MLB) history - and the first in 126 years - to hit two home runs in his first career game. Known for his power and composure, the Venezuelan-born rookie delivered an instant impact, showcasing his potential as a future star. His remarkable achievement places him in an elite group, drawing attention across the league and giving the Diamondbacks a thrilling glimpse of their promising prospect.


In an unusual coincidence, two of the seven players to achieve a two-homer debut have done so within the span of just six days. According to AP, Cleveland rising star Chase DeLauter accomplished the feat last Thursday, smashing two home runs in his first regular-season game after previously making his Major League debut during last season’s playoffs.


The Venezuelan infielder signed for $275,000 in January 2021 and enjoyed a breakout campaign last year, blasting 17 home runs at the Double-A level. His strong performance earned him a spot on the club’s 40-man roster.

The 22-year-old Fernandez was not part of the D-backs’ Opening Day roster but joined the team on Monday after Pavin Smith was placed on the 10-day injured list with left elbow soreness. Making an immediate impact, Fernandez seized his opportunity by delivering an impressive performance, collecting three hits and driving in four runs in his debut game.


Fernandez stepped up to the plate in the bottom of the eighth inning of his MLB debut, facing four-time All-Star closer Kenley Jansen in a high-pressure moment. He delivered in stunning fashion, launching a three-run homer that capped one of the most powerful regular-season debuts in recent memory. His second blast, a go-ahead shot, powered the Diamondbacks to a 7-5 victory over the Detroit Tigers on Tuesday night.

The three-run blast placed him in rare company, joining DeLauter, Trevor Story (2016), JP Arencibia (2010), Mark Quinn (1999), Bert Campaneris (1964) and Bob Nieman (1951) as the only players to hit two home runs in their Major League debuts.