Fansided · 51m
Padres’ wide-open rotation puts every A.J. Preller decision under the microscope
A.J. Preller described the Padres’ unsettled pitching staff as a “blank canvas.” It was an optimistic way to frame a rotation that currently looks more blank than promising. Randy Vásquez is the only surefire returning member of San Diego’s 2026 rotation. Michael King opted out, while the Padres declined Nick Pivetta’s club option. Walker Buehler, Robbie Ray, Casey Mize, Lucas Giolito and Griffin Canning also reached free agency.
King, Pivetta and Buehler have expressed interest in returning, but until contracts are signed, they are just possibilities.