Jul 31, 2011; Toronto, ON, Canada; Former Toronto Blue Jays player Roberto Alomar (12) has his number 12 retired in a ceremony before the game against the Texas Rangers at the Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: Tom Szczerbowski-USA TODAY Sports
45 years ago, on April 24th, the Toronto Blue Jays recruited Tony Fernández, a talented infielder from the Dominican Republic. Fernández, a promising teenager and amateur free agent, effortlessly manned the shortstop position and went on to become a beloved figure in the franchise’s history.
Tony Fernández Signed By the Blue Jays 45 Years Ago
4/24/79
The Blue Jays sign a 16-year-old Tony Fernandez as an amateur free agent. pic.twitter.com/snbHXMdxFQ
— âš¾ J. Daniel âš¾ (@JDaniel2033) April 24, 2024
Fernández, affectionately known as “La Cabeza” by his fellow Dominicans, had a remarkable career with the Blue Jays, playing for them on four separate occasions and earning the admiration of fans each time. A legendary figure in the team’s history, he was praised for his exceptional defensive skills and his ability to consistently make contact as a hitter. Sadly, Fernández passed away at the age of 57 in 2020.
Legend has it that Fernández honed his skills by fielding batted rocks in a goat pasture. He quickly became a fan favorite and showed immense talent as a rookie. From 1983 to 1990, he was a mainstay with the Blue Jays. He then briefly played for the San Diego Padres in 1991 and 1992 before returning to Toronto for the 1993 season. After that, he rejoined the Blue Jays from 1998 to 2001, with a brief stint with the Milwaukee Brewers in 2001. Throughout his career, Fernández won four Gold Gloves, showcased his batting prowess with 213 hits in 1986, and demonstrated his speed with 32 stolen bases in 1987.
Fernández Will Never Be Forgotten
When Fernández played shortstop, he displayed remarkable agility, often sprinting to his right and leaping high into the air to make throws. Not only were his catches and throws precise, but he also completed the play swiftly and efficiently. His .992 fielding percentage during this period set a record for shortstops. Around the same time, Ozzie Smith was gaining fame as one of the top defensive players in the game. However, Fernández proved himself as the American League equivalent, matching Smith’s defensive prowess.
Fernández’s defensive skills were instrumental in the Toronto Blue Jays’ World Series victory in 1993. His slick fielding and unwavering determination set him apart, leaving an indelible mark on the game both defensively and offensively.
