Musgrove's Road to Recovery
Joe Musgrove acknowledged the electric opening day crowd at Petco Park, a record 45,673 strong, from the bullpen. While Nick Pivetta took the spotlight during introductions, Musgrove had already wrapped up his own modest session, marking his return to playing catch for the first time since the Padres' exhibition against Great Britain on March 4.
Though there's no set timeline for his return to the Padres' rotation, this small step forward is a positive sign as Musgrove works past his spring training setback. Reflecting on his offseason, Musgrove noted, “I didn’t feel quite as good throughout the buildup.
Nothing that stopped me from throwing, but I wasn’t as free and consistent. Addressing it now is crucial, rather than forcing my way in and risking more time out.”
Precautionary MRI results showed no new concerns. Musgrove shared, “Post-Tommy John, an MRI never looks great.
I haven’t even looked at it. I just asked them to tell me if something was seriously wrong.
Physically, I feel good and I’m moving in the right direction.”
Musgrove's path back involves progressing from playing catch to throwing off a mound, then bullpens, live batting practice, and likely minor league rehab games. Padres president of baseball operations, A.J.
Preller, emphasized patience: “He’s not been down for long, so hopefully he can get going. We’ll know more in the next week to 10 days as he builds up innings and we see how he bounces back.”
Darvish’s Unique Approach
Yu Darvish, placed on the restricted list, is taking a personal approach to rehabbing his second elbow reconstruction. This decision reflects his desire to manage his timeline and financially support the team while he's unable to pitch.
Preller praised Darvish, saying, “Yu is a special player and person, always considering the organization’s best interests. Instead of sitting on the IL, he’s choosing a path that aligns with his readiness and commitment.”
Despite being owed $46 million through 2028, Darvish won’t collect a paycheck while on the restricted list, and he hasn’t made a decision about retirement.
ABS Makes Its Debut
The new automated ball-strike system (ABS) made its debut at Petco Park during a lopsided game with the Tigers leading 8-0. When a questionable strike call was challenged by Javier Baez, the ABS review revealed the pitch was indeed off the plate, overturning the call. Baez then singled on the next pitch.
Reflecting on the ABS experience, Padres manager Craig Stammen remarked, “I learned that the umpires are pretty good, and they’ve got a good handle on the strike zone.”
A Warm Welcome for Castellanos
Nick Castellanos enjoyed the mild temperatures at Petco Park, a welcome change from the 100-degree Arizona heat and the chilly Aprils he endured in Detroit, Cincinnati, and Philadelphia. "It’s great not having to bundle up in cold-weather gear," he said.
Honoring a Legend
Before the game, the Padres held a moment of silence for Hall-of-Fame pitcher Randy Jones, who passed away in November. His daughter Staci, along with family, honored him by throwing out the ceremonial first pitch.