Padres Activate Pitcher Matt Waldron for Angels Matchup

Waldron returns from injury to make season debut, Alek Jacob optioned to Triple-A

Apr. 18, 2026 at 1:25am

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A fragmented, cubist-style painting depicting the various angles and movements of a baseball pitcher's windup and delivery, with sharp geometric shapes in vibrant navy, crimson, and gold colors.Waldron's unorthodox knuckleball delivery presents a unique challenge for opposing hitters as he returns from injury to bolster the Padres' pitching staff.San Diego Today

The San Diego Padres have activated right-handed pitcher Matt Waldron from the injured list ahead of his season debut against the Los Angeles Angels on Friday. Waldron, a knuckleballer, was 0-1 with a 7.71 ERA in one start for the Padres last season after going 7-11 with a 4.91 ERA in 27 appearances in 2024. To make room on the roster, the Padres optioned right-hander Alek Jacob to Triple-A El Paso.

Why it matters

Waldron's return to the Padres' rotation could provide a boost as the team looks to compete in the NL West. The 27-year-old has shown promise in the minors, and his unique knuckleball pitch could give the Angels' hitters trouble. The Padres are hoping Waldron can build on his limited MLB experience and solidify their pitching staff.

The details

Waldron did not pitch this season after undergoing hemorrhoids surgery in late February. However, he impressed in three scoreless starts for Triple-A El Paso, allowing just seven hits and a walk while striking out 12 batters over 12 innings. Jacob, 27, made one relief appearance for the Padres this season, tossing two scoreless innings.

  • Waldron underwent hemorrhoids surgery in late February 2026.
  • Waldron made three scoreless starts for Triple-A El Paso before being activated.
  • Waldron will make his season debut on Friday, April 18, 2026 against the Los Angeles Angels.

The players

Matt Waldron

A right-handed pitcher for the San Diego Padres who is known for his knuckleball pitch. Waldron was 0-1 with a 7.71 ERA in one start for the Padres last season after going 7-11 with a 4.91 ERA in 27 appearances in 2024.

Alek Jacob

A 27-year-old right-handed pitcher who was optioned to Triple-A El Paso by the Padres. Jacob has appeared in 40 relief games for the Padres over the past four seasons, posting a 3.91 ERA.

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What’s next

Waldron will make his season debut against the Angels on Friday, April 18th. The Padres will be hoping he can provide a boost to their pitching staff as they look to compete in the NL West.

The takeaway

The Padres are counting on Waldron's unique knuckleball pitch to give the Angels' hitters trouble in his season debut. If Waldron can build on his limited MLB experience, he could solidify the back end of the Padres' rotation and help the team make a push in the division.