Rafael Fernandez joined the Santa Clara Cardinals in Summer 2025, quickly establishing himself as one of the most reliable gloves in the infield. Originally from Cheltenham, Pennsylvania, Fernandez brings a fundamentally sound game built on clean fielding mechanics, quick reactions, and high baseball IQ.

Known for his versatility, Fernandez has seamlessly transitioned between second base and shortstop while also showing the flexibility to contribute in the outfield when needed. His calm on-field presence and smooth defensive instincts make him a steadying influence on the Cardinals’ defense.

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Career Overview

Across nine career games, Fernandez has posted a .294 batting average and .368 on-base percentage, tallying five hits, three RBIs, and two walks while scoring four runs. His compact swing and consistent contact skills give him the ability to hit line drives to all fields, while his plate discipline has continued to develop since joining the team.

Defensively, Fernandez has logged 28 innings across multiple positions, maintaining an .889 career fielding percentage with standout performances at second base, where he’s been perfect through his first two starts. His natural footwork, quick exchange, and arm accuracy make him an ideal fit for middle infield roles.

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Fall 2025

In his sophomore campaign, Fernandez has started hot — batting .375 (3-for-8) with 2 RBIs, 2 stolen bases, and a .444 OBP through his first three games. His ability to put the ball in play and generate offense from the lower part of the order has been a pleasant spark for the Cardinals.

Defensively, he’s excelled at second base, recording six total chances without an error and contributing strong double-play work. He’s also filled in at shortstop, where his range and quick release continue to develop.

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Summer 2025 (Rookie Season)

Fernandez made his debut during the Summer 2025 season, appearing in six games and recording two hits, one RBI, and one walk while batting .222. His disciplined approach at the plate and consistent defensive effort immediately earned the coaching staff’s trust.

He also demonstrated his defensive versatility by making appearances in left field and at third base, handling all but one of his chances cleanly and showcasing strong positional adaptability.

Fall 2025
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• Oct 25 2025 — vs Clayton Builders: 2-for-2, 2 RBI, reaching base three times — career-high OBP (.667) performance; also posted perfect fielding (1.000) at second base.
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• Oct 11 2025 — @ San Jose Stealth: 1-for-3 at the plate with a stolen base and strong range at shortstop.
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• Oct 04 2025 — vs Bay City Rays Legacy: Contributed 1-for-3 with RBI and flawless defense at 2B (1.000 FLD%) in a tight 5–4 win.
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Summer 2025
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• Jun 08 2025 — vs California Phillies: 2-for-4, 2 RBI, marking his first multi-hit and multi-RBI game with the Cardinals.
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• Made defensive appearances in both the infield (3B) and outfield (LF), posting a perfect 1.000 fielding percentage.
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• Finished his debut summer with a .300 OBP and steady glove versatility across multiple positions.