The San Diego Padres are on the brink of finalizing their roster, and two veterans, Walker Buehler and Ty France, have already influenced some early decisions. Both players, brought in on minor league deals during the off-season, had opt-out clauses that required action by March 21. The Padres had to decide whether to place them on the 40-man roster or risk losing them to free agency.
Navigating Competition and Injuries
Walker Buehler seemed to have secured his spot in the rotation after impressive recent performances. However, Ty France faced more uncertainty. He was in direct competition with Jose Miranda, especially since utility player Sung-Mun Song was sidelined with an injury.
With France making the roster, Miranda is likely headed to Triple-A, with his opt-out option not kicking in until June 1. The real challenge will come when Song returns from the injured list. France would need to agree to be optioned; otherwise, he could explore free agency again.
This marks a homecoming for France, who was originally drafted and developed by the Padres. Since his major league debut in 2019, he’s made stops with the Mariners, Reds, Twins, and Blue Jays, even snagging a Gold Glove at first base and playing in the World Series last year.
Buehler’s Comeback Journey
Walker Buehler is back in action, showcasing his ability to pitch effectively even with reduced velocity following his second Tommy John surgery. His arsenal includes a seven-pitch mix, with a four-seam fastball reaching up to 94 mph. In three starts, Buehler has posted a 3.09 ERA, with 13 strikeouts and zero home runs allowed.
He’s expressed relief that his elbow pain disappeared just before spring training, allowing him to refine his off-speed pitches. While his fastball might not hit previous highs, Buehler remains a formidable force on the mound.
With Joe Musgrove on the IL recovering from his own surgery, Buehler steps into the No. 4 spot in the rotation. Manager Craig Stammen had challenged Randy Vasquez to secure his rotation spot, which Vasquez did by maintaining his velocity gains and showing improved discipline.
Rounding Out the Rotation
Buehler joins Michael King, Nick Pivetta, Randy Vasquez, and eventually Joe Musgrove in the starting rotation. If Germán Márquez clinches the final spot, the Padres will face another roster puzzle, as Márquez’s major league contract requires his consent for any changes. Similarly, Buehler’s veteran status affords him the same protection.
As the Padres navigate these roster decisions, they’re setting the stage for an intriguing season ahead, with a mix of seasoned veterans and emerging talents poised to make an impact.