San Diego Padres pitcher Nick Pivetta will miss his scheduled start on Sunday because of arm fatigue, the team confirmed. This postponement affects his planned bullpen session as well, but Pivetta is expected to resume throwing in the coming days and may return to game action by next week. The team is taking a careful approach to managing the right-hander’s workload during spring training.
Minor Setback Raises No Alarms for Padres’ Ace
Officials with the Padres have expressed minimal concern about Pivetta’s current status. Known for his durability, the 31-year-old right-hander has only one recorded injury absence in his Major League Baseball career—a month-long stint on the injured list earlier this year due to a flexor strain. After that injury, Pivetta came back strong, delivering his best season yet and finishing sixth in Cy Young Award voting last year. This experience gives the team confidence the brief arm fatigue will not affect his overall readiness.
So far in spring training, Pivetta has made two starts, including a recent outing where he threw 43 pitches. This measured progression is typical for veteran pitchers working to rebuild arm strength as they prepare for a full season.
Rotation Adjustments Possible If Absence Persists
If Pivetta’s recovery takes longer than expected, the Padres may rearrange their starting rotation for Opening Day against Tarik Skubal and the Detroit Tigers on March 26. While Pivetta was viewed as the leading candidate to start given his remarkable 2025 performance, San Diego has yet to announce their Opening Day pitcher. Other rotation members expected to follow include Michael King, Joe Musgrove, and Randy Vásquez.
The team is still deciding on the fifth starter spot, with several candidates vying for the position. This depth in pitching allows the coaching staff, led by Manager Craig Stammen, to remain patient with their ace while other pitchers continue their preparations.
Padres Prioritize Longevity and Full Health Over Immediate Returns
The cautious treatment of Pivetta underscores the Padres’ emphasis on long-term health rather than rushing players back prematurely. With a demanding 162-game schedule ahead, ensuring Pivetta is fully recovered is paramount. Assuming he resumes throwing as planned, the brief delay should not materially impact his Opening Day availability or effectiveness.
Fans can find reassurance in the organization’s prudent approach and Pivetta’s track record of resilience. This temporary pause appears to be a precautionary measure designed to preserve the ace’s durability, pointing toward another strong season for San Diego’s leading pitcher.
“Padres fans can take comfort in the team’s measured response and Pivetta’s proven durability. This minor hiccup appears more precautionary than problematic, setting the stage for another strong season from their reliable ace.” ?Craig Stammen, Manager
