Padres' Musgrove Cleared After Tommy John, Dedicates Field

After missing an entire season recovering from Tommy John surgery, San Diego Padres pitcher Joe Musgrove has some good news to share: he's completely cleared for spring training and feeling stronger than ever.

Musgrove underwent elbow surgery in October 2024 and spent all of 2025 rehabbing. But unlike many injured players who disappear during recovery, he stayed with his team, traveling to nearly every road game and keeping morale high in the clubhouse.

Now he's back to his normal training routine. He started throwing bullpens around Christmas and has been building up his pitch count with all his pitches in the mix.

"I feel really good right now," Musgrove said. "I feel like I'm in a good position physically, mentally for the season."

His teammate Jackson Merrill couldn't be more excited. "It's a different team with him playing out there, with him pitching," Merrill said. "It's fun to play behind him."

The Ripple Effect

While preparing for his comeback, Musgrove found time to make a lasting impact off the field. He and Merrill headed to Solana Beach, California, to dedicate a newly restored Miracle League field at San Dieguito County Park.

The Miracle League creates safe, accessible baseball fields for children and adults with special needs. Musgrove and Merrill didn't just show up for photos. They contributed financially to modernize the field and make it a welcoming space for everyone who loves baseball.

Their involvement speaks to something bigger than one player's recovery. Both athletes stayed connected to what matters most during Musgrove's injury year: community, leadership, and giving others the chance to play the game they love.

Musgrove is keeping his eyes on the prize this season. Spring training starts February 11, and Opening Day follows on March 26. But he's really focused on October and the playoffs.

"I want to try to be as normal as possible," Musgrove said, "keeping in the back of my mind that I need to be fresh and able to throw in October."

The Padres are counting on Musgrove to anchor their rotation, and he's ready to deliver while making sure kids in his community get their own chance to shine on the diamond.