Padres get another warning not to rush Matt Waldron back after shaky rehab start

All signs are still pointing towards the obvious. The San Diego Padres' starting rotation needed help to start the year, but we have seen a recent uptick in success from the likes of Walker Buehler and Michael King. JP Sears joined the rotation this week and looked strong against the Braves as Lucas Giolito's replacement.

As of now, the Friars' starting rotation does not need an immediate rescue from Matt Waldron. And even if they did, it still wouldn't make sense to bring him back. Before getting hurt this season, Waldron was struggling to succeed with his best pitch. Then he injured his bicep, causing confusion of how to handle him.

Waldron still has not overcome his demons in the minor leagues, and his latest outing further proved that. The knuckle-baller struggled on June 24 with Triple-A El Paso, indicating that he is moving backwards in his quest to pitching in the big leagues any time soon.

Matt Waldron is bringing more worries than resolutions surrounding his return to Padres pitching staff

Facing Sugar Land, Waldron walked four batters and allowed two hits in 2.2 innings. This marked his third start since missing a month of action, and though his stat line wasn't remarkable, it wasn't just about the walks. Waldron has yet to pitch beyond three innings in Triple-A.

It's not known whether it's the organization trying to ramp him back up, if he has fatigue, or if we're learning that he isn't a starting pitcher anymore. And if that is the case, the Padres need to decide if Waldron should be traded. San Diego has enough relievers — reliable ones at that. "Demoting" Waldron to the bullpen doesn't do anyone any favors.

It's time to face the music and figure out if: 1.) Matt Waldron is a big league pitcher. 2.) Matt Waldron is a starter. From that, it might be time to consider moving him for a pitcher who can help the starting rotation when that time comes. For now, the rotation is fine, but Waldron's spot on the team should be questionable.

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