San Diego Padres pitcher Yu Darvish, who recently had surgery to repair a torn UCL and flexor tendon in his elbow, is uncertain about his future return to Major League Baseball. Speaking through translator Shingo Horie, Darvish shared that his current focus is strictly on rehabilitation, without serious thoughts about pitching again just yet. He explained that he’ll consider a comeback only if he feels physically capable.
The surgery took place in October, and the expected recovery period is 12 to 15 months, which could make him ready by the 2027 season. However, sources have revealed to the San Diego Union-Tribune that Darvish is contemplating retirement. Last season, the 39-year-old finished with a 5-5 record, a 5.38 ERA, and 68 strikeouts over 72 innings but has struggled with injuries throughout his career. When healthy, Darvish has been a strong contender, finishing as the runner-up for the Cy Young Award twice and earning five All-Star selections.
Darvish is contracted to earn $16 million in 2026 and $15 million each in 2027 and 2028. If he opts to retire, the Padres could free up significant salary space since a retired player’s remaining contract is voided. Over 13 MLB seasons, Darvish posted a record of 115-93, a 3.65 ERA, and 2,075 strikeouts across 1,778 innings pitched.
Without Darvish in the mix, the Padres’ potential 2026 rotation would include pitchers Nick Pivetta, Joe Musgrove, Randy Vazquez, JP Sears, and Kyle Hart.
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Fan Take: Darvish’s uncertainty highlights the fragile nature of a pitcher’s career, reminding fans how quickly the landscape of a team can change. His potential retirement could significantly impact the Padres’ future, but it also opens opportunities for new talent to emerge within the rotation.
