Padres' Joe Musgrove update could be boost rotation needs

The San Diego Padres provided an interesting update on pitcher Joe Musgrove on Tuesday.

Musgrove missed the entire 2025 season as he recovered from Tommy John surgery. However, manager Craig Stammen said during an interview on "Foul Territory" that Musgrove will not have an innings limit in 2026.

Initially acquired as part of a three-team trade during the 2020-21 offseason, Musgrove has been excellent when he has taken the mound for the Padres. He has blossomed into a viable top-of-the-rotation starter, posting a 3.20 ERA and a 1.108 WHIP over his 559.1 innings in San Diego, striking out 585 batters with 140 walks.

Padres' rotation concerns could be solved if Joe Musgrove can stay healthy

The problem is keeping Musgrove healthy. After making 62 starts in his first two years in San Diego, he has made just 36 appearances over the past three years. He missed time in 2023 with a fractured left big toe and shoulder inflammation and battled elbow problems in 2024 before finally going under the knife.

Despite those injury concerns, Musgrove is expected to be a key part of the Padres rotation in 2026. He should form a formidable trio with Michael King and Nick Pivetta atop the rotation, providing a larger margin for error in an unsettled back of the rotation. 

The Padres have designs on contending for a postseason berth despite payroll concerns and creative maneuvering to improve the roster. If Musgrove can stay healthy and take the ball every fifth day, their chances will drastically improve.