Full Breakdown
Padres' Opening Day Roster Adjustments Amid Injuries
3/24/2026, 8:17:22 AM
Jason Adam's Injury and Impact on the Roster
The San Diego Padres will begin the 2026 season without relief pitcher Jason Adam, who has been placed on the injured list due to a ruptured quad tendon. Adam, who had a successful spring training, retiring all six batters faced in two Cactus League games, is expected to be sidelined until at least April 6. Padres manager Craig Stammen indicated that while Adam's recovery is progressing well, the team is prioritizing his long-term health. “Even though it looks good, we’ve got to be smart,” Stammen stated after a recent game against the Seattle Mariners.
Adam's absence opens opportunities for pitchers Ron Marinaccio and Bradgley Rodriguez to secure spots on the opening-day roster. The Padres are optimistic about Adam's return, as his 15-day IL stint can be backdated to March 22, allowing him to potentially return for the team's 10th game of the season.
Germán Márquez's Strong Performance
In contrast to the struggles of other starting pitchers, Germán Márquez concluded spring training on a high note, allowing only one run over 4 2/3 innings in his final outing. This performance solidified his position as the fifth starter for the Padres. Stammen praised Márquez's outing as “one of the better performances of the entire spring for anybody.” Márquez, who signed a one-year deal worth $1.75 million, had previously allowed four runs over 9 2/3 innings in his last two starts.
The Padres' starting rotation faced challenges during spring training, with several pitchers, including Walker Buehler and Nick Pivetta, struggling significantly. Buehler allowed seven runs in just over three innings, while Pivetta gave up five runs in four innings. Stammen acknowledged the difficulties of pitching in Arizona's thin air, emphasizing the need for improvement before the season begins.
Other Roster Changes and Notable Performances
Sung-Mun Song, expected to be a versatile backup infielder, will also start the season on the injured list due to a right oblique strain. His absence creates an opportunity for Ty France, who has a guaranteed contract and cannot be sent to the minors without clearing waivers. Song is anticipated to begin a rehab assignment at Triple-A El Paso, with a potential activation as early as April 1.
In other roster news, the Padres have signed relief pitcher José Leclerq to a minor-league contract. Leclerq, who missed most of the previous season due to a lat strain, brings experience from nine big-league seasons. Additionally, catcher Ethan Salas and outfielder Kale Fountain have been recognized for their standout performances during spring training, with Salas hitting a home run and driving in four runs in a recent game.
Official Statements & Responses
Manager Craig Stammen expressed confidence in the team's ability to adapt to the injuries, stating, “We’ve got to figure it out and get better by the time the season starts.”
Verbatim Quotes
“Even though it looks good, we’ve got to be smart,” — Craig Stammen, Padres Manager
“One of the better outings of the entire spring for anybody,” — Craig Stammen, on Germán Márquez
“About a 10,” — Nick Pivetta, on his desire to leave Arizona after a challenging spring.
The Padres are preparing for their season opener with adjustments to their roster, focusing on recovery and performance improvements as they aim for a successful 2026 campaign.
