The San Diego Padres enter the 2026 season facing significant uncertainty, with payroll limitations curbing the typically aggressive approach of general manager A.J. Preller in free agency.
A major factor is the current roster, which includes several long-term contracts that have not aged well. One notable example is right-handed starter Yu Darvish, who is expected to miss the entire 2026 campaign while recovering from elbow surgery.
Darvish remains under contract with San Diego through the 2028 season on a six-year, $108 million extension signed in February 2023. Even after his return, the Padres will still be responsible for two more years of the deal, raising questions about its long-term value.
Prior to the surgery, Darvish struggled on the mound, further fueling concern about the final stretch of his contract. The 39-year-old veteran posted a 5.38 ERA with a 5–5 record across 15 starts last season.
On Monday, Darvish shared that he has not decided whether he will ever return to the mound, even after completing his recovery.
“Speaking today at a charity event, Yu Darvish said he is focused on his rehab and unsure if he will try to pitch again after the process is complete. Darvish, 39, underwent surgery in October to repair a flexor tendon and the UCL in his right elbow,” reported Dennis Lin of The Athletic.
If Darvish decides to retire, his career will be one of the most accomplished ever, not just for his individual dominance but also for the influence he has had on so many other Japanese players now in the league.
Over 13 years in MLB, Darvish has earned five All-Star selections, two runner-up Cy Young finishes and has operated as the ace of the staff for multiple organizations. This list includes the Texas Rangers, where he debuted in 2012, the Los Angeles Dodgers, the Chicago Cubs and the San Diego Padres.
For San Diego, the uncertainty surrounding Darvish only adds to the challenges facing the franchise. His absence in 2026 leaves a major hole in the rotation, and if he ultimately retires, the Padres will be left with both the financial burden of his contract and the task of replacing a pitcher who was expected to anchor their staff.
With payroll flexibility already limited, the team must now weigh how to move forward without one of its most experienced arms.
Related: Padres’ Fernando Tatis Jr. Makes Decision Outside MLB
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Dec 15, 2025, where it first appeared in the MLB section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
