Padres finally see rotation depth Mike Shildt has been searching for

Last week, in an article released by The Athletic, it was reported that manager Mike Shildt was growing frustrated as the starting rotation was struggling to get quality innings. He acknowledged that while the team had an exceptionally strong bullpen, it was still vital that the Padres’ starters pitched through at least the fifth inning.

Fast forward to this week, and it is safe to say that Shildt got his wish, as the starters have hit the five-inning minimum in four straight games, going 3–2 over that span.

Five strong starts show Mike Shildt the Padres rotation fans hoped to see all year

Nick Pivetta (September 5th)

The right-hander has been the anchor of the rotation all season after signing a four-year deal with the club during the winter. Posting a 2.85 ERA with a 13–5 record, Pivetta has been one of the league’s best value signings of the 2025 season. While his latest start against the Colorado Rockies ended in a losing decision, it was still good to see how he has consistently put up lengthy starts.

Randy Vásquez (September 6th)

The 26-year-old from the Dominican Republic has seen an up-and-down season thus far. He started the season on the right foot, but poor production later on prompted a stint at the Triple-A level. Vásquez made his first start since being recalled against the Colorado Rockies, logging a quality start as he pitched six frames while allowing fewer than three runs.

Dylan Cease (September 7th)

2025 has been a humbling year for Dylan Cease, who is in a contract year. However, if you look at his most recent outing, it seems he is starting to find himself at the right time. Cease pitched five innings, allowing only one run on four hits while striking out five batters.

Yu Darvish (September 8th)

Darvish’s past two starts have both been forgettable, as each lasted only four innings. 2025 has been an injury-plagued year for the 39-year-old, but he nearly made it through six frames while striking out seven in the series opener at home against the Cincinnati Reds. It was a huge bounce-back start for the veteran as he looks to improve down the finishing stretch.

Michael King (September 9th)

Similar to Darvish, the 2025 season has been injury-riddled for Michael King, as he spent a stint on the 60-day IL with a shoulder impingement. King pitched a very solid outing despite the Padres losing, going five innings while allowing only two runs.

Mike Shildt really just wants his starters to get through the first five innings before turning it over to the five-headed monster in the bullpen. So far, it is safe to say he is getting the results he wants, which is what Friar fans should look forward to.

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