.jpg)
5 hours ago
1
The San Diego Padres are in contention for the National League Wild Card and are also just six games behind the Los Angeles Dodgers for the NL West. While there's still ground that needs to be made up, they're still close despite not having a full arsenal of pitchers at the ready.
But, according to Annie Hellibrunn of The San Diego Sports Association on Twitter/X, the Padres might be getting starting pitcher Yu Darvish back soon. Darvish threw a live bullpen session and sat at 93-94 miles per hour. It's a significant step towards him returning to the mound.
Darvish threw two “innings” and 39 pitches total. Faced Trenton Brooks and a few minor leaguers from Lake Elsinore. Velocity hit 94, 95. He was pleased with it. Next step will be seeing how he feels and recovers tomorrow. #Padres https://t.co/EouhqEBBfk
— Annie Heilbrunn (@annieheilbrunn) June 20, 2025After his 39-pitch live bullpen session, Darvish was reportedly "pleased" with where he's at in his recovery. Getting Darvish back on the mound would be huge for the Padres amid their push to win the NL West and maintain a spot in the NL Wild Card race.
With Michael King and Joe Musgrove also out due to injury, the Padres have had to rely on a shakier rotation. Dylan Cease and Nick Pivetta have been solid for the Padres, while Stephen Kolek, Randy Vasquez, and Ryan Bergert have had their moments as starters for the team.
But the Padres need more starters, and getting Darvish back would be a monumental addition for the team. Not only would he help bolster the rotation in the short term, but his return could also help the Padres be smarter with their assets at the trade deadline. If he's back and good to go, the Padres won't need to consider adding a starter.
The 38-year-old hasn't pitched in 2025 for the Padres, but he's coming off a solid 2024 season. Darvish had a 3.31 ERA, a 7-3 record, and struck out 78 batters in 16 starts. In his two postseason starts, he had a 1.98 ERA and seven strikeouts.
Darvish is one of the best pitchers on the Padres' roster, and getting him back on the mound in 2025 would be a massive addition for the team. With the team fighting for a postseason spot, they need all the help they can get. Darvish isn't just help, he'd elevate the team, and help them contend for the NL West.
English (US)