Tatis Jr.’s birthday celebration, Cruz introduced and Cervelli’s throwback

Happy Birthday Fernando Tatis Jr.!

At one point or another, we’ve all been personally victimized by it. Or know someone who has. We’re talking about the dreaded “mordida.” You know when they start chanting it and you feel the hand on the back of your head pushing you into that beautiful, delicious cake. It’s traumatizing, we know. Well, Padres prospect, Fernando Tatis Jr., had the experience, but on a whole new level. The cake was ruined and Tatis Jr. was drenched in lemon-lime soda. We wouldn’t blame him if he never celebrated a birthday again!

Prospects having success

Tatis Jr. seemed to quickly recover from his cake ordeal, however, going 2-for-3 with a triple and two runs on Wednesday for the Estrellas Orientales in their 4-1 win over the Leones del Escogido. He’s one of several prospects having success in the winter leagues across Latin America.

Cruz excited to join Twins 

Nelson Cruz was officially unveiled via teleconference to the Minnesota media Wednesday and shared his excitement about joining his new team. Cruz mentioned the young talent the Twins have with players like Eddie Rosario and how he wants to help Minnesota get back to the playoffs. His aptitude for hitting homers should help in that.

Stroman awaiting a move?

Marcus Stroman’s name has popped up in trade rumors lately. Thursday, he shared this pensive photo. Do you think he is anticipating a move before the new season?

Pro Post of the Day

It’s Thursday, which naturally means #TBT – throwback Thursday. Pirates catcher Francisco Cervelli shared this shot of his first season in professional baseball in the Dominican Summer League from 2003. Cervelli was signed by the Yankees and began his career in New York before he was traded to the Pirates in 2014.

Fan Post of the Day

The playoffs kicked off this week in the Mexican Winter League and this fan braved the cold weather to watch the Naranjeros de Hermosillo beat the Cañeros de Los Mochis, 6-5, to tie the opening round playoff series 1-1.

Happy Birthday!

Chico Hernández (b. 1916), formed first All-Latino battery in MLB history with Hiram Bithorn in 1942; died on this day in 1986

Ozney Guillén (b. 1992) son of Ozzie Guillén

OTD

2007 – Oakland acquires Gio González, Fautino De Los Santos and Ryan Sweeney from the White Sox in exchange for Nick Swisher

2012 – Fernando Rodney signs a one-year deal with Tampa Bay

Featured Image: Jean Fruth / La Vida Baseball