Heartbreak in San Diego? Not So Fast — Yu Darvish Still Fighting to Return to the Padres’ Rotation
Reports of heartbreak in San Diego over the departure of Yu Darvish appear to be premature, if not entirely inaccurate. Contrary to rumors or sensational headlines, the San Diego Padres have not cut ties with their legendary right-hander. In fact, recent developments point to a very different narrative—one of perseverance, patience, and the possibility of redemption as Darvish battles back from injury.
Yu Darvish, the 37-year-old veteran known for his dazzling pitch arsenal and steady leadership, has been sidelined with right elbow inflammation since earlier in the 2025 season. This kind of setback might be career-altering for some players at his age, but Darvish has responded with the same competitive fire that’s defined his Major League tenure. After spending weeks rehabbing at the Padres’ spring complex in Peoria, Arizona, he recently took the next step: a rehab assignment with Triple-A El Paso.
In that outing, Darvish threw 51 pitches over four innings, allowing two runs on just two hits while striking out four. While short of the Padres’ targeted 60–65 pitch count, it was a promising sign for a pitcher who hadn’t taken the mound in a competitive setting in weeks. This was his first minor league appearance since 2012—a testament to how rare and significant this rehab journey is for him.
The Padres have made it clear they’re cautiously optimistic. According to team insiders, if Darvish comes out of this outing feeling strong, there’s a real possibility he could rejoin the big-league club after just this single rehab start. It would be a much-needed boost for a rotation that has dealt with its own share of inconsistencies and injuries this season.
Far from being cut, Darvish is still considered a vital part of the team’s future. The Padres invested heavily in him, not only for his talent but for his experience and leadership in the clubhouse. Cutting ties with him mid-rehab would make little strategic or financial sense, especially considering his commitment to returning at full strength.
Darvish’s journey back to the mound is about more than one player—it’s about resilience, and it reflects the Padres’ broader fight to stay relevant in a competitive National League West. Fans might be anxious for his return, but they can take solace in knowing that Darvish is doing everything he can to contribute again. His career has always been marked by adaptability and determination, and this chapter is no different.
In short, the reports of a heartbreaking end to Darvish’s Padres tenure are not grounded in fact. Instead, San Diego should brace for what might be a more satisfying storyline: the return of a veteran ace who still has something left to prove. As long as he’s wearing a Padres uniform, Yu Darvish isn’t done yet.
