Padres Target Starting Pitcher to Upgrade 2026 Rotation

The San Diego Padres are taking their time this offseason, especially with starting pitching. They’ve already made a few moves to steady the rotation, but league sources say the front office isn’t done yet.

So what’s the holdup? Let’s look at why the Padres are waiting, how money factors in, and which pitchers might actually land in brown and gold before Opening Day.

Padres Still Surveying the Starting Pitching Market

Even with Michael King back in the rotation, the Padres keep working behind the scenes for another starter. Multiple sources say San Diego told agents they’re “not yet ready to move” on pitching, so they’re not in any rush.

It seems like they’re waiting for the right moment, not just dragging their feet. With spring training coming up and some good arms still out there, maybe that patience will pay off.

Why No Deal Is Imminent

The Padres’ caution comes down to money and how the market is shaking out. By waiting, they keep their options open and can see how prices shift, especially as free agents look for their landing spots.

Payroll Constraints Shape the Padres’ Strategy

Payroll is a big reason San Diego is moving slow. RosterResource puts the Padres’ 2026 payroll at about $220 million, just a bit above last year and basically flat for luxury-tax purposes.

That limits how much they can really push without moving some money around. Ownership has shown they’re willing to spend, but they’re not about to go overboard, especially after tightening things up lately.

The Nick Pivetta Factor

One possible move? Trading Nick Pivetta, who’s owed $20.5 million. That would clear up some payroll and maybe bring back a younger player or fill another need.

Honestly, using that money on a mid-rotation starter seems smarter, especially if it adds some depth or upside. Who doesn’t want a little more flexibility?

Mid-Rotation Arms Come at a Price

There are still plenty of solid, if not top-tier, starters on the market. Lucas Giolito and Chris Bassitt are among the bigger names, but they’re going to cost.

Both guys are looking for contracts in the $15–$20 million per year range. That makes a Pivetta trade seem even more logical if the Padres want to keep payroll in check.

Previous Trade Talks Didn’t Pan Out

The Padres have checked out the trade market already. They talked with the Mets about players like Ramon Laureano, Mason Miller, Adrian Morejon, and Jeremiah Estrada, but nothing happened.

Conversations around Mason Miller “went nowhere,” which isn’t shocking since he’s a hard-thrower and would cost a lot to get.

Waiting Game Could Benefit San Diego

There’s another angle here: leverage. As spring training gets closer, asking prices for starters usually drop—especially for pitchers still trying to figure out where they’re headed.

The Padres might just be hoping that waiting lets them land a better deal, whether that’s on dollars or roster fit. Sometimes, patience really does pay off.

Potential Targets if Prices Drop

If the market shifts, San Diego could become a strong landing spot for several intriguing arms. Here are a few names to watch:

Late-market pitchers usually look for teams where they can grab a rotation spot. San Diego offers that kind of opportunity, so waiting things out might just pay off as Opening Day gets closer.

 
Here is the source article for this story: Padres Interested In Adding Starting Pitcher