San Diego Padres right-hander Joe Musgrove is expected to start the upcoming season on the injured list as he continues his recovery from Tommy John surgery. The operation, which reconstructs the ulnar collateral ligament in the elbow, sidelined Musgrove for all of last year and remains the central factor in the club’s cautious approach to his return.
Musgrove, a veteran starter and key member of the Padres’ rotation in recent seasons, has been progressing through the rehabilitation process but is not yet ready for regular-season game action. Beginning the season on the injured list allows him additional time to build arm strength, refine his mechanics following surgery, and gradually increase his workload in a controlled environment rather than under the demands of a full major league schedule.
The team’s decision reflects the typical timeline and care associated with Tommy John recoveries, which often require more than a year before a pitcher can fully resume starting duties. By delaying his return to competition, the Padres aim to protect Musgrove’s long-term health and effectiveness, prioritizing his ability to contribute over the course of the season rather than rushing him back for Opening Day.
Musgrove’s absence at the start of the schedule will require the Padres to adjust their pitching plans. The club will likely rely more heavily on its remaining starters and organizational depth to cover his innings early in the year. Internal options, spot starters, and possible bullpen adjustments may all factor into how San Diego navigates the rotation until Musgrove is cleared to rejoin it.
While an exact date for Musgrove’s return to the active roster has not been announced, opening the season on the injured list indicates that the Padres are preparing for at least a short-term period without one of their most experienced starters. His progress in side sessions, bullpen work, and eventual minor league game action will help determine when he is ready to take the mound again in a regular-season setting.
Musgrove has been an important presence for San Diego, both on the mound and in the clubhouse, and the organization views his recovery as a significant storyline for the year ahead. As he continues to work back from Tommy John surgery, the Padres are expected to monitor his workload closely, with the goal of having him healthy and effective for the bulk of the season once he returns.
