The San Diego Padres have been trudging through one of their rougher stretches of the season. But for a change, the news isn’t all bad.
Two injured starters, Joe Musgrove and Nick Pivetta, both threw bullpen sessions this week. That might not sound like much, but for a rotation that’s been held together with duct tape and hope, it’s a real step forward.
Annie Heilbrunn, who covers the Padres, had the details. Musgrove got on a mound for the first time since his latest setback. He threw only fastballs at about 80 percent effort. Not a full workload, but the fact that he’s throwing off a mound at all is progress. The team is being careful with him. Heilbrunn noted they’re trying to find that balance between pushing him along and keeping his arm healthy.
Pivetta also threw a bullpen, which he’s done a few times now. He even did some pitcher fielding practice afterward.
Musgrove’s Long Road Back
Musgrove is a local guy from El Cajon. A few years ago he threw the first no-hitter in franchise history. He was a big reason the Padres made it to the NLCS in 2022. Since then, it’s been one thing after another. Broken toe in 2023. Tommy John surgery in 2024. Missed all of 2025. Then this spring, he injured himself in an exhibition game against Great Britain and has been out ever since. So yeah, it’s been a while.
The Padres are treating him like the investment he is. They’re not rushing.
Piveta’s Been Out Too
Pivetta was one of the best pitchers in the National League last season. Then elbow inflammation hit early this year and he’s been on the shelf since. If both guys can get back on the mound in the next few weeks, and if the Padres are still within striking distance of a wild card spot, there’s a chance they could make a real push.
Right now that’s a big if. But at least the news is finally pointing in the right direction.
For what it’s worth, Mason Miller will be the only Padre at the All-Star Game. The rest of the team will be home, watching, and waiting for reinforcements.
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