What is the San Diego Padres' starting pitcher situation for the 2026 season?

The San Diego Padres are facing a major starting pitcher problem, as they will be without ace Yu Darvish next season after he underwent elbow surgery, and top free agents Dylan Cease and Michael King are on the open market.

Who are the top starting pitchers the Padres are targeting in free agency?

The Padres are closely monitoring the free agent market, with names like Framber Valdez, Tatsuya Imai, and Cody Ponce among their top targets.

How are the Padres trying to address their starting rotation issues?

In addition to exploring the free agent market, the Padres have spoken about transitioning some of their relievers, like Mason Miller, to the starting rotation, though this is never a guaranteed solution.

Home / Sports / Padres Seek Ace Amid Pitching Shakeup Ahead of 2026 Season

Padres Seek Ace Amid Pitching Shakeup Ahead of 2026 Season

15 Nov, 2025

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Summary

Padres face major starting pitcher problem with Darvish out, Cease and King on open market
Exploring transitioning relievers to starters, but seeking frontline free agent starter
Framber Valdez, Tatsuya Imai, and Cody Ponce among top pitching targets

Padres Seek Ace Amid Pitching Shakeup Ahead of 2026 Season

As of November 15th, 2025, the San Diego Padres find themselves in a precarious position when it comes to their starting rotation. The team is set to enter the offseason with a major pitching problem, as they will be without the services of ace Yu Darvish, who recently underwent surgery on his elbow and is expected to miss the entire 2026 season.

Adding to their woes, the Padres are also set to lose the services of two other key starters, as both Dylan Cease and Michael King are currently on the open market as free agents. The team has explored the possibility of transitioning some of their relievers, such as Mason Miller, into starting roles, but this is never a guaranteed solution.