Padres make big decision on Joe Musgrove’s roster status

The San Diego Padres have made a decision regarding Joe Musgrove’s status for the National League Division Series.

Musgrove will not be on the Padres’ NLDS roster, manager Mike Shildt announced Friday, as he is still experiencing tightness in his elbow. It is not clear if he will be able to return for the NLCS if the Padres were to advance.

Joe Musgrove, who exited his Game 2 start with tightness in his elbow, won’t pitch in the NLDS, Padres manager Mike Shildt said, which is not all that surprising. No word on whether he’ll be available thereafter.

— Alden González (@Alden_Gonzalez) October 4, 2024

Musgrove was forced to exit Thursday’s NL Wild Card Game 2 due to elbow concerns in just the 4th inning. He has already spent time on the injured list with elbow issues twice this season, so for this to flare up again is a major concern. Musgrove is also a major part of the Padres’ rotation, which figures to be a major advantage for the team against the comparatively short-handed Dodger pitching staff.

Injuries have limited Musgrove to only 36 starts over the last two seasons combined. The numbers have been good, but the 31-year-old just has not been able to stay on the field for a full campaign.