Matt Waldron's Surgery Puts Opening Day Status in Jeopardy

San Diego Padres pitcher Matt Waldron is facing a significant setback as he recovers from hemorrhoid surgery, which has placed his availability for Opening Day in jeopardy. The 29-year-old right-hander underwent the procedure to address an infection and has been hospitalized for several days, according to Padres manager Craig Stammen.

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Waldron's condition was initially described as an "infection in his rear end," later clarified to be related to hemorrhoids. Stammen stated, “He had to have surgery to drain it and make it better,” emphasizing that Waldron's recovery timeline is currently "week-to-week" based on how well the incision heals and his mobility. The manager expressed hope that Waldron would be ready for the end of spring training, but acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding his return.

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With Waldron likely sidelined, the competition for the Padres' starting rotation has intensified. The team currently has three clear starters: Nick Pivetta, Michael King, and Joe Musgrove. However, both King and Musgrove are returning from significant injuries, which may lead the Padres to consider a six-man rotation. Randy Vasquez is seen as having the "inside track" for the fourth spot, while other pitchers including Walker Buehler, German Marquez, JP Sears, Triston McKenzie, and Marco Gonzales will compete for the remaining positions.

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Waldron has been with the Padres organization since 2020, following a trade with the Cleveland Guardians that brought Mike Clevinger to San Diego. He made his MLB debut in 2023 and had a mixed performance in 2024, pitching 146.2 innings with a 4.91 ERA. Last season, he struggled with injuries, limiting his appearances primarily to Triple-A, where he posted a 6.67 ERA over 18 starts. His unique status as one of the few active knuckleballers in Major League Baseball adds to the interest surrounding his recovery.

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Padres manager Craig Stammen has reiterated the team's commitment to supporting Waldron during his recovery, stating, “We’ll take care of him the best we can, set him up here for the end of spring training, get him going, and then we’ll see where that takes us as the season goes and where his rehab process goes.” This sentiment reflects the organization’s focus on Waldron's health and future contributions to the team.

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While there has been no formal criticism regarding Waldron's situation, the timing of his injury raises concerns about the depth of the Padres' pitching staff. Analysts have pointed out that Waldron's absence complicates the team's plans, especially given the existing injuries to other pitchers.

Rear end surgery sidelines MLB knuckleballer in spring training

As the Padres prepare for the upcoming season, the focus will be on Waldron's recovery and the ongoing competition for the starting rotation. The team will monitor his progress closely, with Opening Day just weeks away.

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