San Diego Padres pitcher Bryan Hoeing is currently weighing the option of undergoing elbow surgery after experiencing setbacks during his rehabilitation. According to Kevin Acee of the San Diego Union-Tribune, Hoeing is still rehabbing but plans to decide on surgery soon. Manager Craig Stammen indicated that the organization expects a resolution “relatively quickly.”
Recent Developments Signal Possible Change in Treatment Approach
Hoeing was shut down just over a week ago due to discomfort in his throwing elbow. Initially, pitching coach Ruben Niebla expressed confidence that the problem wouldn’t be severe, but new developments may have altered that outlook. The precise type of surgery under consideration has not been disclosed, although most elbow operations require extensive recovery periods.
Recovery Timelines and Implications of Elbow Procedures
Potential surgeries for pitchers can vary widely in severity and recovery time. At the more serious end, Tommy John surgery demands over a year of rehabilitation. Less invasive procedures, such as removal of bone spurs, usually require several months on the sidelines. For context, Carlos Rodón underwent surgery for bone spurs last October and aims to return by April, which approximates six months of recovery.
Challenges Ahead for Hoeing After a Promising 2024 Season
This situation is particularly difficult for Hoeing, who showed promise during the 2024 season, posting a 2.18 earned run average across 53 2/3 innings. However, his momentum was disrupted this year due to a right shoulder strain that sidelined him early in 2025. After returning from the injured list in June, he spent most of his time on optional assignment in Triple-A, struggling with a 4.70 ERA. Surgery now could jeopardize his efforts to rebound in 2026.
Padres Bullpen Competition Intensifies Amid Hoeing’s Uncertainty
Even if Hoeing avoids surgery, he is expected to start the new season on the injured list, adding pressure to the Padres’ bullpen depth. Acee reports that Kyle Hart is making a strong case for a roster spot after delivering 8 2/3 scoreless innings in spring training, with seven strikeouts, three hits, three walks, and one hit batter. Hart, who split time as a swingman last year, faced challenges, recording a 5.86 ERA over 43 innings.
Other Pitching Staff Health and Roster Dynamics
Left-hander Yuki Matsui remains a wildcard as he recovers from an adductor strain. Matsui has resumed defensive drills and mound throwing but remains doubtful for Opening Day. The Padres are projected to fill eight bullpen positions with Mason Miller, Adrián Morejón, Jeremiah Estrada, David Morgan, Wandy Peralta, Bradgley Rodríguez, Ron Marinaccio, and Matsui. Of these pitchers, Morejón, Peralta, Matsui, and Marinaccio cannot be optioned. Among those who can, Miller is almost certain to stay on the major league roster, while Estrada and Morgan’s strong performances make their demotion unlikely. Rodríguez, with only seven big league appearances, is a potential candidate for optioning if Jason Adam is healthy and included, which could push Rodríguez to the minors.
Future Roster Adjustments Expected as Waldron Returns
The bullpen competition may grow even tighter when Matt Waldron returns from injury. Waldron will begin the season on the injured list but is not expected to be out for long. Because he is out of options, his return will force difficult decisions as he will need to displace a player or be overtaken himself unless new injuries arise in the staff.
Impact of Hoeing’s Health on Padres’ Pitching Outlook
Bryan Hoeing’s decision on whether to undergo elbow surgery will have serious implications for his career and the Padres’ depth. A surgery and subsequent recovery could delay his progress as he aims to build on his 2024 breakthrough. The team’s bullpen composition and performance in the 2026 season hinge on the health and availability of several pitchers, including Hoeing, making this a critical period for the club’s pitching staff.
“The club expects the decision relatively quickly.” ?Craig Stammen, Padres Manager
“There’s never a good time for a pitcher to have elbow surgery but right now would be particularly unfortunate for Hoeing.” ?Kevin Acee, San Diego Union-Tribune Journalist
“Kyle Hart is making a strong push for a spot with 8 2/3 scoreless innings in spring training so far.” ?Kevin Acee, San Diego Union-Tribune Journalist
