In the upcoming weeks, the San Diego Padres may add some significant pitching staff additions.
Joe Musgrove and Nick Pivetta, who are both expected to pitch to hitters this week, have both been making good progress. There appears to be some hope for the right-handers after a protracted recuperation period.
The pitchers will be put on rehab assignments after throwing to the hitters (perhaps several times). If there are no more setbacks, this would then put the right-handers on schedule to enter the Padres’ rotation in mid-to-late August.
The San Diego Union-Tribune’s Padres insider Kevin Acee claims that those in the organization who have seen the two pitchers pitch have been pleasantly enthusiastic about the development.
According to manager Craig Stammen, the team is aiming for at least four rehab starts, with each starter building up to five innings.
This might influence how the front staff approaches the impending trade deadline and is undoubtedly promising for the Padres. There have been rumors that San Diego is considering adding another starter, but since the two arms might return shortly, other priorities might take precedence.
Nick Pivetta’s Injury History
The San Diego Union-Tribune’s Padres insider Kevin Acee claims that those in the organization who have seen the two pitchers pitch have been pleasantly enthusiastic about the development. After an outstanding 2025 season in which he recorded a 2.87 ERA over 31 starts, the right-hander was anticipated to be the team’s standout.
Although Pivetta’s length of absence was initially uncertain, few anticipated that he would lose so much time. Pivetta is becoming irritated with the length of time it has taken him to recuperate from his injury.
The Padres’ rotation will be greatly enhanced if Pivetta can return without any problems. In order to avoid having his contract nullified and losing $32 million, the right-hander is also motivated to return before August 22.
Joe Musgrove’s Injury History
Due to a setback during spring training, Musgrove’s season has been difficult. After missing the entirety of 2025 due to Tommy John surgery, the veteran was anticipated to join the pitching staff this year.
Over the past few months, the right-hander has been fighting back, but initially, his elbow wasn’t cooperating. Fortunately, there was no need for Musgrove to undergo further surgery.
Although Musgrove’s recuperation is reportedly a few weeks behind Pivetta’s, he is still anticipated to make a comeback this year.
With a 3.88 ERA during 19 starts prior to the injury in 2024, Musgrove was one of the Padres’ more reliable arms.
