The San Diego Padres have officially signed veteran right-hander Nick Pivetta to a four-year, $55 million contract, solidifying their starting rotation ahead of the 2025 MLB season. The deal, finalized on Monday, includes a $3 million signing bonus and is structured with opt-out opportunities after the 2026 and 2027 seasons.
Pivetta, who turns 32 on Friday, brings a wealth of experience from his tenure with the Boston Red Sox and Philadelphia Phillies. Over his eight-year career, he has amassed a 56-71 record with a 4.76 ERA. In the 2024 season, Pivetta posted a 6-12 record with a 4.14 ERA, striking out 172 batters over 145 2/3 innings.
The financial terms of Pivetta’s contract are backloaded, with a $1 million salary in 2025, followed by $19 million in 2026, $14 million in 2027, and $18 million in 2028.
This structure provides the Padres with immediate payroll flexibility while committing to Pivetta in the long term.
Pivetta’s addition comes at a crucial time for the Padres, as they aim to reinforce their pitching staff following the loss of Joe Musgrove for the 2025 season due to Tommy John surgery. He is expected to join a rotation featuring Dylan Cease, Yu Darvish, and Michael King.
The signing also has implications for the Padres’ draft prospects. Since Pivetta declined a qualifying offer from the Red Sox, Boston will receive a compensatory Round B selection. Consequently, the Padres will forfeit their second-highest draft pick and $500,000 from their international bonus pool.
As the Padres prepare for the upcoming season, Pivetta’s experience and consistency are anticipated to play a pivotal role in the team’s pursuit of postseason success.
Leave a Reply