This Padres bullpen arm could be the surprise breakout of 2026

When the San Diego Padres inked Ty Adcock to a one-year MLB deal this offseason, that may have sparked some backlash. Adcock was hit with multiple injuries this past season, and in 23 career MLB innings, his 5.48 ERA doesn't necessarily shine.

But there is much more there than what meets the eye. Adcock has strong K/BB numbers across MLB, MiLB, and the Dominican Winter League. The Friars clearly see something in him. That should have fans believing in him, even if just a little bit.

Padres signing Ty Adcock to a major league deal hints that he is primed for a 2026 breakout

Adcock had a strong winter campaign in the Dominican League, striking out 15 batters across nine innings. He also didn't walk a batter.

Adcock, 28, throws a hard fastball, which averages over 97 MPH. He throws an exceptional slider, too. Having that combo is more than enough for Padres pitching coach Ruben Niebla to work with.

We'll call Adcock the Padres' likeliest breakout pitching candidate for 2026, which isn't a stretch. Look what David Morgan did last season as a secret weapon. He wasn't viewed as a dominant up-and-coming pitcher, but his rookie campaign was ultimately very strong.

To play both sides, let's say that Adcock does not fully pan out. The most they will need out of him is coming out of the gates strong. With 2025 hero Jason Adam out to begin the year, someone like Adcock could be a viable temporary replacement while Adam recovers and ramps up for activity.

San Diego has an elite bullpen as it is with Mason Miller, Adrian Morejon, Wandy Peralta, Jeremiah Estrada, David Morgan, and Yuki Matsui. When Adam returns, the Friars should have the best relief staff in baseball.

But at the very least, until he comes back, Adcock should be a tremendous replacement. He doesn't need to be dropped into high-leverage situations. He just needs to eat some relief innings. If he exceeds expectations, don't be too surprised if his appearances start to rack up.