In a strategic move aimed at strengthening their starting rotation, the San Diego Padres have signed veteran pitcher Nick Pivetta to a four-year contract worth $55 million, as reported by ESPN’s Jeff Passan. This signing comes during a challenging offseason where the Padres are managing a significant payroll while seeking to enhance their team. Pivetta’s contract, which is pending a physical examination, notably features opt-out clauses after the second and third years, making it a flexible option for both the player and the team.
Pivetta’s contract is structured to ease the financial burden on the Padres, who are grappling with an estimated $194 million payroll for 2025—a sharp increase from previous seasons. The contract includes a modest $3 million signing bonus and a minimal $1 million salary for 2025. However, the payouts increase significantly over the subsequent years, with Pivetta slated to earn $19 million in 2026, $14 million in 2027, and $18 million in 2028. Such backloaded contracts are becoming more common, allowing teams to manage their budgets while still securing talent.
As he approaches his 32nd birthday, Pivetta enters this new chapter in his career following a solid stint with the Boston Red Sox. Over the last four seasons, he has averaged 156 innings per year, reflecting his durability, a sought-after trait in today’s pitching landscape. His career 4.33 ERA and impressive strikeout rate of 26.9% signify his ability to compete at a high level. Last season, Pivetta recorded a commendable 4.14 ERA alongside the lowest walk rate of his career, establishing himself as one of the reliable options available in the free-agent market.
With Pivetta joining the rotation, he is expected to slot in behind established starters Dylan Cease, Yu Darvish, and Michael King, leaving room for competition for the fifth spot between pitchers like Matt Waldron and Randy Vasquez. His presence bolsters the starting rotation at a crucial time, especially in light of Joe Musgrove’s absence due to Tommy John surgery. The addition of Pivetta signifies a proactive step by Padres management to address the glaring need for pitching depth after they met the Los Angeles Dodgers in the National League Division Series.
This signing is more than just a noteworthy addition to the Padres’ roster; it represents a calculated effort by general manager A.J. Preller to bolster the team’s competitiveness while navigating a conservative offseason. With the signing of Pivetta being the first substantial move of the offseason, it indicates the team’s commitment to enhancing its roster in a cost-effective manner. As spring training approaches, the eyes of Padres fans will undoubtedly be on how Pivetta fits into their strategy for the upcoming season, especially as they look to bounce back after a challenging postseason. The long-term implications of this deal could play a significant role in the Padres’ quest for a deeper playoff run in the years to come.