How the Padres could fill out their starting rotation for 2027

The San Diego Padres enter the upcoming offseason facing major rotation questions, with general manager A.J. Preller likely needing at least two starting pitchers. Randy Vásquez remains under contract, while Nick Pivetta holds a team option worth $32 million across two seasons. Meanwhile, Michael King is widely expected to opt out of his deal after an impressive regular season and postseason run.

Health and contractual decisions cloud other rotation candidates, including Joe Musgrove and Yu Darvish, who both underwent elbow surgeries. Free agents Walker Buehler, Casey Mize, Lucas Giolito, Griffin Canning, and Robbie Ray could hit the open market, while internal options like JP Sears and prospect Luis Gutierrez remain in the mix.