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16h ago

Padres Option JP Sears As Nestor Cortes Readies First Start

Manager Mike Shildt has expanded the bullpen to nine arms to back Nestor Cortes’ first start before Michael King’s expected mid-August return.

Aug 4, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; San Diego Padres pitcher JP Sears (38) throws against the Arizona Diamondbacks in the first inning at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-Imagn Images
Jun 13, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; San Diego Padres pitcher Sean Reynolds against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images.
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Overview

  • San Diego optioned left-hander JP Sears to Triple-A El Paso after his five-run, 10-hit outing in a 6-2 loss to Arizona on August 4, recalling right-hander Sean Reynolds in a corresponding move.
  • Nestor Cortes was activated off the 60-day injured list and is set to make his Padres debut in the rotation on August 6.
  • The club has shifted to a nine-man bullpen to preserve high-leverage options while maintaining rotation flexibility.
  • The current starting quartet features Yu Darvish, Dylan Cease, Nick Pivetta and Cortes, with Michael King projected to rejoin the staff in mid-August following shoulder rehab.
  • These moves aim to shore up pitching depth as San Diego pursues the National League West lead in the season’s critical second half.