Joe Musgrove is returning from a missed season with his sights set on making an impact in the San Diego Padres rotation. Jackson Merrill returned at the end of the season and flashed what could be with a strong month of September to end the year. The Padres will need Musgrove and Merrill to have impact seasons if they are going to challenge for a playoff spot let alone the National League West. If Musgrove and Merrill can stay healthy and if Michael King can bounce back from his pinched nerve and sprained knee, San Diego should find itself in contention in 2026. Gaslamp Ball asked the Friar Faithful if Musgrove or Merrill needs to have the better season for the Padres to be successful.
