Ethan Salas has already made his first month with the San Diego Padres memorable.
Now that San Diego has clinched a postseason berth, the 20-year-old catcher could add a historic feat to his rookie season. The Padres secured their spot with a win over the Dodgers, though they are still playing for Wild Card seeding and a chance to open the playoffs at Petco Park.
As MLB researcher Sarah Langs noted on X, Salas would become the youngest player to appear at catcher in a postseason game if the Padres use him behind the plate. Salas is 20 years and 116 days old as of Friday. Bob Didier set the current mark at 20 years and 230 days when he caught Game 1 of the 1969 National League Championship Series for the Braves. A spot on the postseason roster alone would not break the record; Salas would need to enter a game as a catcher.
Article Continues BelowHis defense helped get him to the majors, and his bat has given the Padres reasons to keep him involved. After a slow start offensively, Salas hit the first two home runs of his career in the same game and delivered a walk-off single against the Marlins during San Diego’s playoff push. His first big-league hit was a triple, as well.
Manager Craig Stammen still has a roster decision to make before the Wild Card Series. Salas is not guaranteed a spot, and the Padres must decide on two catchers, and Luis Campusano is a lock to make it. Freddy Fermin would be the odd man out. Salas’ defense and his growing list of timely hits have made the case for taking him into October.
If he makes the roster and gets behind the plate, a rookie who has already made his mark on the Padres’ season will break a postseason record that has stood since 1969.

