Wed Jun 25 08:00:00 UTC 2025: **News Article:**

**Tatis Jr. Sues Big League Advance, Alleging Predatory Lending Practices**

San Diego, CA – San Diego Padres outfielder Fernando Tatis Jr. has filed a lawsuit against Big League Advance Fund (BLA), accusing the company of “exploitative, predatory business practices” targeting young, vulnerable athletes, particularly those from Latin American countries. The lawsuit, filed Monday in San Diego Superior Court, alleges that BLA runs an unlicensed lending business that sidesteps legal oversight and unfairly profits from the earnings of California workers.

Tatis, who signed a $340 million contract with the Padres in 2021, entered into an agreement with BLA in 2017 while still a minor league prospect. He received an upfront payment in exchange for a percentage of his future MLB earnings. While he initially praised the agreement, citing the need for financial resources to improve his training and living conditions, Tatis now claims the deal is predatory and harmful.

“I’m fighting this battle not just for myself but for everyone still chasing their dream and hoping to provide a better life for their family,” Tatis stated in a press release. “I want to help protect those young players who don’t yet know how to protect themselves from these predatory lenders and illegal financial schemes.”

Tatis’ legal team, led by Robert Hertzberg, argues that BLA has disregarded California laws designed to protect against predatory financial activity. The suit echoes previous concerns raised within the baseball community about the disproportionate number of young Latin American players who enter into agreements with companies like BLA.

While BLA’s President and CEO, Michael Schwimer, has stated the company’s goal is to help minor leaguers navigate uncertain futures, critics argue the deals can be overly burdensome. Former MLB player Francisco Mejía previously sued BLA in 2018, alleging “unconscionable” tactics before eventually dropping the case. The terms of BLA’s agreements stipulate that players owe nothing if they fail to reach the major leagues. However, if they do, a significant portion of their pre-tax earnings are owed to BLA.

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