Joe Musgrove Added to Padres' Wild-Card Roster After Tommy John Surgery Recovery
The All-Star pitcher rejoins the San Diego Padres for the National League wild-card series, marking a remarkable return after nearly two seasons sidelined.
San Diego Padres All-Star pitcher Joe Musgrove has been added to the team's 26-man roster for the National League wild-card series, a surprising inclusion after a lengthy recovery from Tommy John surgery. Musgrove has not pitched for the Padres since October 2024, a period of nearly two seasons.
Musgrove is expected to work out of the bullpen as a postseason reliever. He joins fellow bullpen members Jason Adam, Yuki Matsui, Adrian Morejon, David Morgan, Bradgley Rodriguez, and Mason Miller. "You always bet on Joe Musgrove in terms of the person, and the stuff has been good. His opportunity to go and compete in a big spot, you trust him," said president of baseball operations A.J. Preller.
Musgrove last appeared for the Padres in the 2024 wild-card series against the Braves. The right-hander's journey back to the mound has been challenging, with multiple setbacks preventing his return throughout the 2026 season. Earlier in September, Musgrove himself expressed doubt about returning before the end of the current season. However, his recent hard work with the coaching staff has earned him a spot on the postseason roster.
There is a possibility that Musgrove could make his 2026 debut in the wild-card series opener against the Cubs, scheduled for Tuesday evening.