Padres Expected to Loose Key Starter Nestor Cortes to Free Agency
SAN DIEGO,CA – The San Diego Padres are bracing for the likely departure of starting pitcher nestor cortes in free agency,a significant loss as the team navigates potential changes to its rotation following a recent stretch of poor performance. Cortes, who will be a free agent at the end of the season, is expected to seek a more lucrative contract elsewhere after proving himself a valuable asset.
The Padres’ starting pitching has struggled recently, posting the worst ERA in Major League Baseball over the last nine games, contributing to their difficulties in the playoff race. Beyond Cortes, the future of pitcher Jason Adam is uncertain, as he could miss the start of the 2026 season due to injury. Michael King is also unlikely to return, preferring to test the open market for a larger deal. This potential exodus leaves the padres with Nick Pivetta, Yu Darvish, Joe Musgrove, and JP Sears as currently projected starters for next season, necessitating at least one, and possibly multiple, additions to the rotation.
The Padres face a critical stretch of games, beginning with a series against the Colorado Rockies on Friday at 5:40 p.m. PT, where seven matchups against the rockies offer an prospect to improve their standing in the division. The team may consider a complete overhaul of their starting rotation, potentially moving on from current starter Dylan Cease, who has been inconsistent this season.
Several free agent pitchers could fill the void left by Cortes, including Houston Astros starter Framber Valdez, and also All-Stars Ranger Suarez and Zac Gallen. The Padres will need to aggressively pursue pitching options to bolster their rotation and contend for a playoff spot.
