Ethan Salas Becomes Youngest Catcher With Multi-Homer Game In Padres Win
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San Diego Padres rookie Ethan Salas made major league history on Wednesday night by becoming the youngest catcher to hit multiple home runs in a single game, leading his club to a 9-3 victory over the Colorado Rockies in Denver. At 20 years and 107 days old, Salas hit a solo home run in the second inning off starting pitcher Mason Adams and followed with a two-run home run off reliever Nick Frasso in the fifth inning. With this performance, Salas surpassed the historic milestone previously held by Butch Wynegar, who recorded a multi-homer game at 20 years and 192 days old in 1976. Salas also became the youngest catcher to hit a home run in the major leagues since Hall of Famer Ivan Rodriguez accomplished the feat in 1991. The milestone victory comes after Salas began his big league career hitless in his first 15 at-bats before collecting his first career hit and triple against San Francisco. The Padres finished the matchup with 13 total hits to secure the road win.
More context
Timeline
- On June 20, 1991, Ivan Rodriguez debuted as a young teenage catcher.
- On July 25, 1976, Butch Wynegar set the previous multi-homer catching record.
- On September 2, 2026, Ethan Salas made his major league debut.
- On September 13, 2026, Ethan Salas recorded his first career major league hit.
- On September 16, 2026, Ethan Salas hit two home runs in Denver.
- On September 16, 2026, Ethan Salas became the youngest multi-homer catcher.
- On September 16, 2026, the San Diego Padres defeated the Colorado Rockies.
- On September 17, 2026, sports media outlets reported the historic milestone achievement.
- In coming weeks, Salas will continue catching for the Padres.
- In future seasons, Salas projects as the team starting catcher.
Why it matters
Immediate US impact: Captivates baseball fans nationwide highlighting elite young catching prospect milestones. Possible long-term US impact: Establishes Salas as a cornerstone franchise player for future seasons. Most affected groups: San Diego Padres fans, baseball historians, and sports media followers. Reader Priorities: Prioritize official MLB broadcasts and verified sports reporting networks.
Coverage notes
Left: Focuses on youth milestones and historical significance in baseball. Center: Focuses strictly on game statistics and historical milestone records. Right: Emphasizes individual breakout performance and franchise future outlook.
Primary report
Associated Press published game report on September 16, 2026.
Sources
JQJO Editorial Desk · Human reviewed · AI assisted. Report a correction.








