Padres' Nick Pivetta Addresses Elbow Injury After IL Stint

The starting pitcher is hopeful to return this season despite right elbow inflammation.

Apr. 15, 2026 at 10:48pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a baseball pitcher's throwing motion broken down into overlapping planes of navy, green, and orange, conveying the fragility and complexity of an elbow injury.Pivetta's elbow injury casts a shadow over the Padres' promising start to the season.San Diego Today

San Diego Padres starting pitcher Nick Pivetta has been placed on the injured list due to right elbow inflammation. Pivetta addressed the injury, stating he is focused on rehab and is confident he will return at some point during the 2026 MLB season, though he did not provide specifics on his MRI results or a timeline for his recovery.

Why it matters

Elbow injuries for pitchers are always concerning, as they can potentially lead to more serious issues like Tommy John surgery. The Padres will need to carefully manage Pivetta's recovery to ensure he can return to the rotation and help the team compete in the NL West, where they currently trail the division-leading Dodgers.

The details

Pivetta was placed on the injured list with right elbow inflammation. He said he is 'focusing on rehab' and allowing 'some healing to happen,' but did not provide specifics on his MRI results or a timeline for his return. The Padres are currently 11-6 on the season and in second place in the NL West, two games behind the 13-4 Dodgers.

  • Pivetta was placed on the injured list on April 15, 2026.

The players

Nick Pivetta

A starting pitcher for the San Diego Padres who was recently placed on the injured list with right elbow inflammation.

AJ Cassavell

A reporter for MLB.com who shared Pivetta's comments about his injury.

San Diego Padres

The Major League Baseball team that Pivetta plays for, currently in second place in the NL West division.

Los Angeles Dodgers

The division-leading team in the NL West, currently 13-4 on the season.

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What they’re saying

“'Going to take time to rest, allow some healing to happen,' he said. He wouldn't discuss specifics of his MRI, but said he's confident he'll be back this season. When asked if surgery could be on the table he said he's 'focusing on rehab,'”

— Nick Pivetta, Padres Starting Pitcher

What’s next

The Padres will continue to provide updates on Pivetta's recovery timeline as he focuses on rehab. His return to the rotation this season could be a key factor in the team's ability to keep pace with the division-leading Dodgers.

The takeaway

Pivetta's elbow injury is a concern for the Padres, but the team and pitcher remain optimistic he can return at some point this season to help bolster their rotation and playoff push. Careful management of his recovery will be crucial to ensuring he can contribute without risking further injury.