San Diego Padres Sign Nick Pivetta to Four-Year, $55 Million Deal

The veteran pitcher joins a rotation facing challenges and opportunities, with a backloaded contract offering flexibility and opt-out options.

Nick Pivetta's contract includes a $3 million signing bonus, a $1 million salary in 2025, and escalating payments of $19 million, $14 million, and $18 million from 2026 to 2028.
The deal features opt-out clauses after the 2026 and 2027 seasons, providing Pivetta flexibility to re-enter free agency.
Pivetta, who posted a 4.14 ERA with 172 strikeouts in 145.2 innings last season, fills a key rotation spot for the Padres, especially with Joe Musgrove sidelined for 2025 after Tommy John surgery.
The signing aligns with GM A.J. Preller's strategy of cost-effective acquisitions, as the Padres aim to maintain payroll flexibility while bolstering their pitching depth.
The move raises questions about potential trades involving other Padres pitchers, including Dylan Cease and Michael King, who have been linked to trade rumors.