Joe Musgrove Returns After Two Years, Makes Padres' Wild Card Roster

Joe Musgrove, the San Diego Padres' hometown pitcher, has been added to the team's postseason roster for the NL Wild Card Series against the Chicago Cubs after nearly two years away from major league play. The 33-year-old right-hander last appeared in a game on October 2, 2024, when he exited a playoff start against the Atlanta Braves with a right elbow injury. He underwent Tommy John surgery that same month and missed the entire 2025 season during his recovery.

Musgrove's path back proved longer and more difficult than initially anticipated. He missed the entire 2026 regular season after experiencing significant setbacks in his rehabilitation, prompting frustration from observers questioning whether he would ever return. However, his recovery accelerated in late August and September. He made four Triple-A rehab appearances in August, with his final outing spanning five innings. In September, he pitched in instructional league games and live batting-practice sessions, showing improved velocity and arm recovery that convinced the Padres medical staff and management he was ready.

Padres manager Craig Stammen emphasized the confidence the organization has in Musgrove, stating that the key breakthrough was his ability to recover after pitching to hitters and resume throwing the next day. General Manager AJ Preller noted that recent evaluations showed good velocity, movement, and shape, leading to his inclusion on the 11-man pitching staff. Musgrove is expected to pitch out of the bullpen in the best-of-three series, though he could potentially open a decisive Game 3. Michael King is scheduled to start Game 1, with Nick Pivetta starting Game 2.

Musgrove's return represents a significant redemption after his past accomplishments with San Diego. He threw the franchise's only no-hitter in 2021, was an All-Star in 2022, and carries a 3.20 ERA across 97 starts with the Padres since joining the team in a trade from Pittsburgh before the 2021 season. He also won a World Series title with the Houston Astros in 2017. The Padres will open the Wild Card Series against Chicago on September 30, 2026, at Petco Park.