Padres Sign Former All-Star Pitcher German Marquez

One-year deal adds depth to San Diego's starting rotation

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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The San Diego Padres have agreed to a one-year contract with veteran starting pitcher German Marquez, a former All-Star who spent his entire career with the Colorado Rockies. Marquez, 30, is looking to bounce back after an injury-plagued 2023-2024 seasons and a down year in 2025 with the Rockies.

Why it matters

The Padres are aiming to compete for a National League Wild Card spot in 2026, and adding an experienced starter like Marquez provides more depth and options for their pitching staff as they try to chase down the powerhouse Los Angeles Dodgers in the NL West.

The details

Marquez made the All-Star team in 2021 but was limited to just five total starts in 2023 and 2024 due to injury. He returned in 2025 but struggled, posting a 6.70 ERA. The Padres are hoping a change of scenery and a full, healthy season will help Marquez regain his All-Star form away from the hitter-friendly confines of Coors Field in Colorado.

  • Marquez agreed to the one-year contract with the Padres on Saturday, February 14, 2026.
  • Marquez last made the All-Star team in 2021.

The players

German Marquez

A 30-year-old starting pitcher who spent his entire MLB career with the Colorado Rockies prior to signing with the Padres.

San Diego Padres

A Major League Baseball team based in San Diego, California, that is looking to compete for a playoff spot in 2026.

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What’s next

The Padres will look to integrate Marquez into their starting rotation and hope he can regain his All-Star form to bolster their chances of reaching the playoffs in 2026.

The takeaway

The Padres are making strategic moves to build a competitive roster, adding experienced pitching depth in Marquez to complement their existing talent as they aim to challenge the Dodgers in the NL West and secure a postseason berth.