Preller, Stammen Issue Updates Via Video Call With Reporters

The San Diego Padres are still sorting out the aftermath of their loss to the Milwaukee Brewers in the NLDS, with GM A.J. Preller and manager Craig Stammen conducting a video conference call with multiple reporters, and Mark Polishuk of MLBTradeRumors.com covered a lot of ground in his update on the session. 

Start with the contract of starter Nick Pivetta, although there was nothing new that added to reports from several outlets during the week. The Padres can pick up Pivetta’s option for next season, but that would also mean Pivetta would have an option for the following year. 

Preller also mentioned starter Yu Darvish, who sat out last year after elbow surgery and was reportedly considering retirement. But Darvish’s name popped up in rumors about a possible return, so the GM mentioned touching base with the right-hander given the work he’s put to “at least give himself an option,” per Preller. 

The GM also didn’t commit to the possibillty that another injured starter, right-hander Joe Musgrove, might be available next year. Musgrove attempted a comeback that resulted in his being a last-minute add to the playoff roster, but he was unable to build up past four innings in his rehab starts. His status going forward and figuring out what spot might be best for him will be another offseason question that needs to be answered. 

Moving Musgrove to the bullpen would strengthen that already-formidable unit, but it would create an even larger need for rotation help. 

Another tidbit that emerged from the session was that the Padres will be “more proactive” in their offseason shopping, according to Kevin Acee of the San Diego Union-Tribune. The Padres made very few moves during last offseason after the team was put up for sale, so it would be far more noteworthy if San Diego did less this winter. 

As regards Stammen, most of the coachings staff is expected to return, although there were no hints about who might not be coming back. That was a bit of a surprise, and Stammen also offered updates on reliever Jeremiah Estrada and outfielder/DH Gavin Sheets. 

Estrada is now on a throwing program after multiple stints on the IL for elbow tendinitis, knee inflammation, and a shoulder impingement. Preller did indicate that Estrada might have been available if the Padres had reached the NLCS. Sheets, meanwhile, will likely opt for rest and rehab rather than undergo surgery for plantar fasciitis after struggling with the injury for much of the season.