Padres should monitor proven reliever hinting at possible 2026 starting opportunity

The Padres have made a name for themselves as a franchise with a unique ability to find relievers and convert them into starters. They've successfully converted Michael King and Seth Lugo into ace starters, and their next reclamation project could be on its way soon.

The pitcher in question is current Yankees reliever Luke Weaver. Weaver was a failed starter who continued to get opportunities based on his first-round draft slot and former status as a top prospect. Between 2016 and 2023, he made 106 starts and 38 relief appearances, pitching to a 5.14 ERA and 1.438 FIP.

Finally, in 2024, the Yankees converted Weaver to a full-time reliever, and he reached his full potential. With New York, Weaver has made 123 relief appearances. In 145.1 innings, he has a 3.28 ERA and a 10-7 record. He's been worth 2.4 bWAR as a reliever, after being worth just 0.7 bWAR in his first eight years as a starter.

Having just turned 32, Weaver will be hitting free agency this winter and will finally have a chance to make money on the open market. Apparently, he's also interested in making a comeback as a starter.

"The door is open. I am never just going to say, ’Absolutely not.’ When the time comes, let’s talk about it," said Weaver on the New York Post podcast. "Clay has done a great job this year in that transition. I don’t know what people are saying, but I’ve watched from afar, and I’m proud of him."

He mentioned Clay Holmes, his former companion in the Yankees bullpen, who went to the Mets and had success this year as a starter. In 30 starts and 158.1 innings, Holmes has held his own, with a 3.69 ERA and 11-8 record.

If there is any team perfect for a guy like Weaver, it would be San Diego. The Padres successfuly converted former Yankee reliever Michael King into an ace starter, and also did so with former Mets reliever Seth Lugo.

They'll need help in their rotation next year, with Dylan Cease and King both approaching free agency. Perhaps Weaver could be the answer.

Padres Latest News and Updates