Padres Reportedly Among MLB's Most Active Teams in Free-Agent Starting Pitcher Market

The San Diego Padres appear determined to address their biggest offseason weakness, with new reporting suggesting they are already among baseball's busiest teams in the market for starting pitching.

According to MLB Network insider Jon Morosi, as reported by ClutchPoints, San Diego is among the most active clubs pursuing free-agent starting pitchers.

The development comes as general managers gather in Las Vegas for their annual meetings, with the Padres facing significant uncertainty about their 2027 rotation.

San Diego's pitching needs became more pressing after Michael King opted out of the remaining two years of his contract and the team declined Nick Pivetta's club option.

King's decision was expected, but it created another major challenge for president of baseball operations A.J. Preller.

The right-hander could command a substantial long-term contract, with one estimate projecting a five-year, $149.6 million deal.

Pivetta's departure further complicates matters. The veteran missed much of 2026 with a flexor strain but was effective when healthy, posting a 2.87 ERA across 39 starts over the past two seasons.

The Padres also have several other starters entering free agency, including Walker Buehler, Robbie Ray, Casey Mize, Lucas Giolito and Griffin Canning.

That leaves Randy Vásquez as the only sure returning member of the rotation, according to MLB.com.

Joe Musgrove's role remains uncertain following Tommy John surgery, while questions also surround Yu Darvish's future.

The club previously began confronting its rotation decisions when King opted out, but Morosi's report provides an indication that San Diego is actively exploring solutions.

It also follows predictions that the Padres would need to be major players in free agency to remain competitive in the National League West.

Morosi did not identify specific pitchers San Diego is targeting or indicate whether negotiations have advanced with any free agents.

That distinction is important in a market featuring several prominent names, including King and Pivetta, both of whom could potentially return.

Preller has previously characterized the rotation turnover as an opportunity to reshape the pitching staff rather than simply replace departing players.

With the Padres coming off a 91-win season and another postseason appearance, rebuilding the rotation figures to be central to their hopes of contending again in 2027.

Morosi's latest report suggests that process is already underway.