Will the San Diego Padres trade Nick Pivetta?

The Padres are exploring trade options for Nick Pivetta due to payroll constraints, though a deal is not considered likely without a steep return.

Why are the Padres considering trading Nick Pivetta?

Pivetta's heavily backloaded contract and the Padres' need for payroll flexibility to acquire starting pitchers are the primary reasons.

What are the Padres' other trade options?

Besides Pivetta, the Padres are fielding interest in Jake Cronenworth and could consider trading Fernando Tatis Jr. for financial relief.

Home / Sports / Padres May Trade Ace Pivetta for Payroll Relief

Padres May Trade Ace Pivetta for Payroll Relief

8 Dec

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Summary

Padres exploring trade for starting pitcher Nick Pivetta due to payroll constraints.
Pivetta's contract features a heavily backloaded $19 million due in 2026.
Team targets flexibility to pursue multiple controllable starting pitchers.

Padres May Trade Ace Pivetta for Payroll Relief

The San Diego Padres are reportedly exploring trade possibilities involving starting pitcher Nick Pivetta as they grapple with significant payroll constraints. Pivetta's contract includes a substantial $19 million payment due in 2026, making him a prime candidate for a trade aimed at rebalancing the team's finances. This potential move comes as the Padres need to address their starting pitching depth, with key pitchers like Joe Musgrove recovering from surgery and Randy Vásquez facing challenges.

Trading Pivetta could offer the Padres the financial flexibility to pursue multiple controllable starting pitchers or replicate past strategies of trading a high-value player for prospects. The team's payroll is projected at $201 million, and a pending lawsuit adds to the financial uncertainty. While trading Pivetta would weaken a critical area of need, his potential free-agent status after the 2025 season makes him an attractive trade chip in a market where starting pitchers are in high demand.