Padres Spring Training 2026: Bullpen Focus and Rotation Questions

PEORIA, Ariz. — The San Diego Padres are considering a strategy that could see them lean heavily on their bullpen early in the 2026 season, potentially delaying the need to finalize a fifth starting pitcher. This approach stems from a combination of bullpen depth, a favorable early-season schedule, and uncertainty surrounding the rotation.

Bullpen Strength and Early Schedule

The Padres boast one of the best and deepest bullpens in Major League Baseball MLB.com. Coupled with a schedule that features just six games in the first eight days, the team could conceivably navigate at least their first 10 games with only four starting pitchers.

Rotation Uncertainty

Three spots in the Padres’ rotation are secured by Nick Pivetta, Michael King, and Randy Vásquez. Joe Musgrove is expected to fill another, but his return from Tommy John surgery is being carefully managed. He was shut down after experiencing fatigue following his first spring training start on March 4th and is not expected to be available until at least the second turn through the rotation, and potentially later MLB.com.

Walker Buehler has likely earned a rotation spot after signing a minor-league contract. This leaves one remaining spot subject to competition.

Fifth Starter Candidates

Germán Márquez was initially considered a frontrunner for the fifth starter role, but his performance in a recent start raised questions. His major league contract, guaranteeing $1.75 million, would require his consent to a minor-league assignment.

Left-handers Marco Gonzales and J.P. Sears are also vying for the position, with both experiencing mixed results in their outings. Gonzales, for example, allowed 11 runs on eight hits and six walks in two innings on Saturday.

Potential Bullpen Games

The Padres are open to utilizing “bullpen games” – contests started by a reliever rather than a traditional starting pitcher – to manage the rotation and leverage bullpen strength. Manager Craig Stammen stated, “Anything and all things are on the table,” and “I don’t think anything has been decided” MLB.com.

Reliever Options

If the Padres opt for a bullpen-focused approach, they may add an extra reliever to the opening-day roster. Left-handers Kyle Hart and Jackson Wolf, and righty Logan Gillaspie have all shown promise during spring training.

Looking Ahead

The Padres’ plan is flexible and could be influenced by several factors, including Musgrove’s recovery, the performance of other rotation candidates, and potential roster changes. A new team owner, potentially in place sometime in the season’s first month, could also create opportunities to add a starting pitcher via trade or free agency, though any such addition is unlikely to impact the immediate strategy for the first few weeks of the season.

Although leaning on the bullpen carries risk – potentially taxing the relief corps – the Padres are prepared to adjust their approach if necessary. Stammen emphasized the team’s “pliability,” noting that creative strategies are more feasible early in the season.

The Padres play their Spring Training games at the Peoria Sports Complex in Peoria, Arizona MLB.com and Peoria Sports Complex.