Pivetta set for season debut after lengthy elbow injury layoff
The Padres will activate right-hander Nick Pivetta from the injured list to start Monday's game against Washington. He has been sidelined since April with an elbow flexor strain, limiting him to four appearances this season. His return could impact the Padres' wild-card push and his contract situation.
Pivetta's return comes at a critical moment for a Padres rotation that has struggled to find consistency behind its established starters. His most recent rehab outing covered 4 1/3 scoreless innings on 65 pitches, suggesting a pitch limit near five innings Monday. The club plans to keep Randy Vásquez available in relief rather than shift to a six-man rotation.
The contract stakes are significant. Because Pivetta has spent more than 130 consecutive days on the injured list, the Padres can void the final two years and $32 million of his four-year, $55 million deal. His performance down the stretch could influence whether the team exercises that option or pursues a new agreement with the 33-year-old.
Pivetta's return could shape the Padres' wild-card hopes and, by extension, the broader playoff picture in the National League. A strong finish may also alter his free-agent value and the team's willingness to retain him. Fans and front offices alike will watch how his elbow responds, as pitcher health remains a central concern across the sport.