Fernando Tatis Jr. Makes Jaw-Dropping Leaping Catch at the Wall, But Reds Catcher Gets the Last Laugh.

San Diego Padres star Fernando Tatis Jr. wowed fans once again on September 9, 2025, with a spectacular leaping catch to rob Cincinnati Reds catcher Tyler Stephenson of what looked like a certain home run. The play came in the top of the fourth inning with the Reds already leading 2-0.

Stephenson crushed a fastball from Padres starter Michael King deep to right field, and it seemed destined to leave the park. However, Tatis tracked the ball with incredible speed, reaching the warning track in record time. With perfect timing and athleticism, he leaped at the right-field wall, planting his foot for leverage and snatching the ball out of the air just before it cleared the fence.

The play was so impressive that Tatis nearly doubled up runner Gavin Lux at first base, who was caught off guard expecting the home run. The Padres faithful erupted in cheers, witnessing yet another highlight-reel moment from their superstar right fielder.

Tatis’ catch was reminiscent of a similar home run robbery he executed just weeks earlier, solidifying his status as one of baseball’s premier defensive outfielders. Since moving full-time to right field in 2023, he has become a strong contender for a second Gold Glove award, wowing fans and analysts alike with his extraordinary defensive plays.

Despite Tatis’ heroic catch, Reds catcher Tyler Stephenson had the last laugh. In the ninth inning, Stephenson smashed a two-run home run to left field, giving Cincinnati a 4-2 lead and eventual victory over San Diego.

The game tightened the National League wild card race, with the Reds now three games behind the New York Mets. Meanwhile, the Padres remain two games behind the Los Angeles Dodgers in the NL West race and hold a slim advantage over the Mets for the second wild card slot.

Fernando Tatis Jr.’s defensive brilliance continues to energize Padres fans and highlights his all-around value. As the season marches on, the baseball world will be eagerly watching his incredible plays—and hoping for more moments of magic.