Musgrove, Pivetta take another step toward return in 'pen sessions
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SAN DIEGO -- The Padres took another step toward getting their rotation settled as right-handers Joe Musgrove and Nick Pivetta threw bullpen sessions on Saturday.
The Padres have been stitching together their starting pitching of late by leaning on their bullpen in an unconventional manner. The team is using just two traditional starters in right-handers Walker Buehler and Michael King, with the rest of the load being carried by relievers and piggybacking starters.
Musgrove is recovering from Tommy John surgery and Pivetta is rebounding from right elbow inflammation. They could be key additions later this month, along with any possible Trade Deadline acquisitions, minus any hiccups along their roads to recovery.
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Musgrove hasn’t pitched this season and Pivetta’s last outing was in April.
“It’s a normal bullpen for them,” Padres manager Craig Stammen said. “It’s [about] them getting ready for their next appearance. It’s like they are starting their regular five-day routine.’’
That could mean both hurlers’ next move will be rehab outings, likely somewhere with a Padres affiliate.