The San Diego Padres’ starting rotation is nearly set, with three—and likely four—spots locked in, leaving a fierce competition for the remaining roles. But here’s where it gets controversial: who will step up to fill those final spots, and will the Padres’ strategy pay off?
In Peoria, Arizona, the buzz around the Padres’ camp is palpable, but it’s important to read between the lines when interpreting manager Craig Stammen’s recent comments. When jokingly asked about naming a starting pitcher for the March 26 season opener against the Tigers, Stammen quipped, ‘We’ve got a lot of opening-day starters.’ While this might sound like an overstatement, it hints at the team’s confidence in their top rotation arms—even if the reality is more nuanced.
And this is the part most people miss: The Padres don’t actually have a surplus of proven opening-day starters. Traditionally, that honor goes to the team’s best pitcher from the previous season. This year, that’s undoubtedly Nick Pivetta. After a breakout 2025 campaign—his first with the Padres—Pivetta posted a career-best 2.87 ERA over 181⅔ innings, cementing himself as a top-15 starter in the majors. If he’s healthy, it would be a shock if he doesn’t get the nod for opening day.
Beyond Pivetta, the Padres are set with Michael King, the 2025 opening-day starter who returned after testing free agency, and Joe Musgrove, a reliable veteran coming off Tommy John surgery rehab. ‘We’re very excited with the starting staff we have at the moment,’ Stammen said, underscoring the team’s optimism.
But the real question—and the source of much debate—is who will round out the rotation after Pivetta, King, and Musgrove. Stammen admits, ‘It’s a competition for four, five, six, and seven.’ The Padres are eyeing a veteran addition to bolster this competition, but with limited funds, they’re playing the waiting game as prices drop closer to the season.
Here’s where it gets even more intriguing: The Padres have a deep pool of candidates, including seasoned veterans and promising prospects. Let’s break down the contenders:
Probably No. 4
Randy Vásquez: At 27, Vásquez has been a reliable workhorse since joining the Padres in 2024, posting a 3.84 ERA last season and helping the team to a 17-9 record in his starts. With no minor league options left, he’s a strong bet to secure the fourth spot.
Four for One?
Marco Gonzales: The 33-year-old lefty brings nearly 1,000 innings of MLB experience, making him the most seasoned competitor. However, he’s coming off flexor tendon surgery, and his major league assignment clause adds a layer of complexity. Can he reclaim his form?
Triston McKenzie: Once a strikeout machine, McKenzie has battled injuries and inconsistency since 2022. Now on a minor-league deal, he’s fighting to rediscover his potential. Will he rise to the occasion?
JP Sears: After a rough 5.47 ERA in five starts last season, Sears is looking to rebound. With a history of solid performances for the Athletics and Yankees, he’s a wildcard in this race.
Matt Waldron: The 29-year-old knuckleballer is out of options and faces a make-or-break spring. His 2.76 ERA over 14 starts in 2024 shows promise, but consistency and confidence in his unique pitch remain his biggest hurdles.
Probably a Different Role
Kyle Hart: Returning from Korea, Hart showed promise in the bullpen last season. While he’ll be ‘stretched out’ in spring, his value may lie in providing multi-inning relief. However, a crowded bullpen could complicate his path.
Probably Depth
Jagger Haynes: At just 23, Haynes throws 95 mph but needs to refine his control. Likely headed back to the minors, he’s a future emergency starter to watch.
Miguel Mendez: The Padres see the 23-year-old righty in San Diego soon, though not at the season’s start. His upper-90s fastball and slider could accelerate his timeline.
Jackson Wolf: With just one MLB start under his belt, Wolf’s five-pitch mix makes him a versatile depth option. Can he capitalize on another chance?
Here’s the bold question: With so many contenders and limited spots, who do you think will emerge as the Padres’ rotation dark horse? And is the team’s strategy of waiting for a veteran addition too risky? Let’s debate in the comments—this is one conversation you won’t want to miss!
