DIVISIONAL OUTLOOK: NL West—Rotation battles in SD, ARI

San Diego Padres

As camp opens, a couple of rotation spots are locked up, but there are at least two up for grabs, with plenty of options set to battle it out. Edinson Vólquez (RHP, SD) and Clayton Richard (LHP, SD) have spots all but guaranteed, and Jason Marquis (RHP, SD) is likely to join them after a solid showing in 2012. After coming over in a trade in May, he made 15 starts and put up a 4.04 ERA and 7.6 Dom, the latter of which probably isn't sustainable given his track record.

Eric Stults (LHP, SD) was also traded to San Diego, and he, too, found success there. In 18 appearances (14 starts), his 2.92 ERA wasn't fully supported by his skills, but likely gives the 33-year-old a leg up in the battle for a rotation spot.

Almost!

You’re just a few clicks away from accessing this feature and hundreds more throughout the year that have a singular goal in mind: Winning your league. Subscribe to BaseballHQ.com here!

Already a subscriber? Sign in here

More From PT Tomorrow

Connor Wong is one of several AL East catchers whose playing time outlook could be altered as teams seek upgrades at the trade deadline. Plus, a potential rotation upheaval in TOR, and Encarnacion-Strand emerging in BAL.
Jul 28 2026 3:05am
The Nationals bolstered their team for the stretch run and beyond by adding Connelly Early to their rotation, and all it cost them was Curtis Mead...and hopefully not their eternal souls. Plus: Acuña in ATL; SP in MIA; next men up at NYM; needs in PHI; more.
Jul 27 2026 8:39am
Two impact Padres' starting pitchers are close to a return. Plus implications of Will Smith's neck, Rockies OF situation, and check in on young players who may be getting their chance in the NL West.
Jul 25 2026 3:07am
Shane Smith's awful season hasn't improved in the minors. Plus, two top prospects at Triple-A for CLE, Javier Báez starts a rehab assignment, and a look at SP depth in KC and MIN.
Jul 23 2026 3:05am

Tools