The Padres are facing a bit of a setback with their right-hander, who’s currently sidelined and taking things week by week, according to manager Craig Stammen. The pitcher recently underwent a procedure for a hemorrhoid, and the team is keeping a close eye on his recovery.
Waldron, at 29, had a brief stint in the majors last season, pitching 4 2/3 innings and allowing four runs. The year before, he was more active, making 26 starts and posting a 4.91 ERA, with a decent 21.3% strikeout rate and a 6.4% walk rate. He started strong in 2024, with a 3.79 ERA over his first 23 starts, but things took a turn as he gave up 26 runs in just 18 1/3 innings towards the end, which inflated his ERA significantly.
Known as one of the rare knuckleballers in the game today, Waldron had a tough time in Triple-A last year, finishing with a 6.48 ERA over 21 starts. Despite this, he managed to keep his strikeout and walk rates respectable at 20.7% and 7.1%, respectively. He was also hampered by a high .368 average on balls in play and a low 59% strand rate.
Waldron’s situation is a bit tricky since he’s out of minor league options, meaning he can't be sent down without clearing waivers. However, he can start the season on the 15-day injured list and, if needed, go on a 30-day minor league rehab assignment once he’s ready to pitch again.
The Padres have been busy reshaping their rotation for 2026. They’ve welcomed back Joe Musgrove from Tommy John surgery, re-signed Michael King, and added veteran Nick Pivetta.
Randy Vásquez, who’s out of options, and newcomer Germán Márquez are also in the mix. Griffin Canning joined on a one-year deal but is still recovering from an Achilles injury.
Meanwhile, lefties JP Sears and Kyle Hart are on the 40-man roster and could start the season in Triple-A as depth options. Veterans Walker Buehler, Marco Gonzales, and Triston McKenzie have signed minor league deals with spring training invites, potentially adding more depth to the rotation.