BREAKING : Padres Get Bad News on $108 Million Starting Pitcher As Opening Day Approaches

The San Diego Padres have been dealt a major blow just weeks before Opening Day, as $108 million starting pitcher Joe Musgrove is expected to miss significant time due to injury. According to team sources, Musgrove has suffered a setback in his recovery from shoulder inflammation, putting his availability for the start of the season in serious doubt.

Musgrove, a key part of the Padres’ rotation, signed a five-year, $108 million contract extension in 2022 after emerging as one of the club’s most reliable arms. However, lingering health issues have plagued him over the past year. After battling through a toe fracture and shoulder troubles in 2024, Musgrove was hopeful for a fresh start this season. Unfortunately, his latest injury has raised concerns about his long-term durability.

 

Padres manager Mike Shildt confirmed the news during a media session, describing Musgrove’s status as “week-to-week” but remaining cautious about a specific return timeline. “We’re going to be careful with Joe,” Shildt said. “He’s too important to rush back. We need him at full strength for the long haul.”

Without Musgrove, the Padres’ rotation takes a significant hit. The team was counting on him to anchor the staff alongside Yu Darvish and Michael King. Now, they’ll have to rely more heavily on younger arms and depth starters, which could be risky as they try to stay competitive in the NL West.

 

The timing couldn’t be worse for San Diego, which is aiming to bounce back after missing the playoffs last season. Losing a front-line starter like Musgrove puts added pressure on the remaining rotation members to step up. It may also force the Padres’ front office to consider external pitching options, whether through late free-agent signings or potential trades.

Musgrove’s absence is a major setback for a team with postseason aspirations. As Opening Day draws closer, the Padres will have to find a way to compensate for the loss of their $108 million ace, hoping that his recovery goes smoothly and he can return to form sooner rather than later.