Padres activate RHP Matt Waldron to face Angels

Right-hander Alek Jacob optioned to Triple-A El Paso to make roster spot

Apr. 18, 2026 at 2:10pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A fractured, cubist-style painting depicting the dynamic motion of a baseball pitcher's wind-up and delivery, with sharp geometric planes in vibrant colors representing the team's strategic maneuvering to strengthen their pitching staff.The Padres' activation of pitcher Matt Waldron signals a strategic shift in their approach to building a competitive pitching rotation for the season ahead.San Diego Today

The San Diego Padres have activated right-handed pitcher Matt Waldron from the injured list ahead of his season debut on Friday against the Los Angeles Angels. To open a roster spot, the team has optioned right-hander Alek Jacob to their Triple-A affiliate in El Paso.

Why it matters

Waldron's return to the Padres' rotation is significant as the team looks to bolster their pitching staff for the upcoming season. The 27-year-old knuckleballer had a solid 2024 campaign and will look to build on that performance as the Padres aim to compete in the NL West.

The details

Waldron has not pitched this season after undergoing hemorrhoids surgery in late February. He was 0-1 with a 7.71 ERA in one start with San Diego last season after going 7-11 with a 4.91 ERA in 27 appearances (26 starts) in 2024. Waldron didn't give up a run in three starts (12 innings) for El Paso during his rehab assignment, allowing seven hits and a walk while striking out 12. Jacob, 27, made his lone appearance of the season on Wednesday with two scoreless innings in relief. He is 2-0 with a 3.91 ERA in 40 relief appearances over parts of the past four seasons for San Diego.

  • Waldron underwent hemorrhoids surgery in late February 2026.
  • Waldron made his season debut on Friday, April 18, 2026 against the Los Angeles Angels.

The players

Matt Waldron

A 27-year-old right-handed pitcher for the San Diego Padres who is making his season debut after recovering from hemorrhoids surgery.

Alek Jacob

A 27-year-old right-handed pitcher who was optioned to Triple-A El Paso to make room for Waldron on the Padres' roster.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

Waldron will look to build on his strong rehab assignment and provide a boost to the Padres' pitching staff as they aim to compete in the NL West this season.

The takeaway

The Padres' activation of Matt Waldron from the injured list demonstrates the team's commitment to strengthening their pitching rotation as they push for a playoff berth. Waldron's return could provide a much-needed boost, but the team will need to continue making strategic roster moves to find the right balance and depth on the mound.