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sports1d ago
Padres could get creative to fill fifth spot in rotation at beginning of season
- Padres consider using an expanded bullpen or opener strategy to cover early innings instead of a traditional fifth starter.
- Musgrove’s return from Tommy John surgery may delay a full, early-season rotation role.
- Germán Márquez’s status remains unsettled as his contract and performance keep him in flux for the opener.
- The team could add a starter via trade or potentially sign Lucas Giolito if market conditions allow.
- May consider using an opener or short-leash approach with Márquez while evaluating options in the week ahead.
- Padres managers and execs acknowledge the bullpen will bear more innings early if a bullpen-centric plan is used.
- The schedule allows a rotation without a fifth starter for at least the first 10 games, aiding the bullpen plan.
- Owner change timing could influence moves and payroll flexibility during the early season.
- Internal competition remains among Pena, King, Sears, and others for rotation roles.
- The Padres may rely on trade or free-agent moves if ownership can support a payroll upgrade.
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