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Musgrove's Return Delayed: Padres Pitcher on IL
23 Mar
Summary
- Joe Musgrove begins the 2026 season on the injured list.
- Musgrove is recovering from Tommy John surgery performed in October 2024.
- He has not thrown off a mound since early March and needs minor league starts.
San Diego Padres pitcher Joe Musgrove will begin the 2026 season on the injured list, facing a delayed return from Tommy John surgery. He underwent the procedure in October 2024, missing the entire 2025 season.
Manager Craig Stammen confirmed Musgrove's status, indicating this IL placement was part of the recovery plan. Musgrove has not thrown off a mound since March 8 and is expected to need at least three or four minor league starts before he can join the Padres. His return is crucial for the team's starting rotation and World Series aspirations.
Before his injury, Musgrove was a consistent member of the Padres' rotation. In 2024, he posted a 3.88 ERA over 99.2 innings, with 101 strikeouts. The team hopes for his eventual return to bolster their pitching staff. The Padres open their season on March 26 against the Detroit Tigers.
