Padres Pitcher Eduarniel Nunez Optioned to Triple-A

The right-hander will start the 2026 season with the Las Vegas Aviators.

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

The San Diego Padres have optioned pitcher Eduarniel Nunez to their Triple-A affiliate, the Las Vegas Aviators. Nunez appeared in three games during spring training, allowing three runs on two hits and three walks while striking out three batters over 2.2 innings. The move comes after Nunez produced a 7.11 ERA and 1.89 WHIP with 11 strikeouts over 12.2 innings in 10 appearances with the Padres and Athletics in 2025.

Why it matters

Nunez was unable to secure a spot on the Padres' major league roster out of spring training, indicating the team sees more development needed before he can contribute at the highest level. The move to Triple-A will allow Nunez to continue refining his skills and work towards another opportunity with the big league club.

The details

Nunez, a right-handed pitcher, struggled with his command and control during spring training, leading the Padres to option him to their Triple-A affiliate in Las Vegas. The 25-year-old will look to impress with the Aviators in order to potentially earn another shot with the major league roster later in the 2026 season.

  • Nunez was optioned to Triple-A Las Vegas on Sunday, March 1, 2026.
  • In 2025, Nunez appeared in 10 games between the Padres and Athletics, posting a 7.11 ERA and 1.89 WHIP.

The players

Eduarniel Nunez

A 25-year-old right-handed pitcher in the San Diego Padres organization.

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What’s next

Nunez will look to impress with the Las Vegas Aviators in order to potentially earn another shot with the Padres' major league roster later in the 2026 season.

The takeaway

Nunez's demotion to Triple-A shows the Padres want to see more development from the young pitcher before he can contribute at the major league level. The move provides him an opportunity to refine his skills and work towards another chance with the big league club.