Quick Takeaways
- Core Insight: Nick Pivetta returns to the postseason as the Padres' Game 2 starter after missing most of the 2024 season.
- Key Highlight: Pivetta posted a 3.45 ERA in 12 rehab starts, meeting the team's health benchmark.
- Actionable Advice: Padres fans should monitor bullpen usage; the team may lean on relievers if Pivetta’s innings limit is enforced.
LOS ANGELES — Nick Pivetta will take the mound for the San Diego Padres in Game 2 of the MLB Wild Card Series against the Chicago Cubs on Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2024, after missing most of the 2024 season with a right elbow injury. The right‑hander, who logged 12 innings in a controlled rehab assignment, replaces starter Matt Waldron, who pitched Game 1. — Netflix New Releases: September 28 To October 4 Streaming Guide
- Nick Pivetta’s Injury and Recovery Timeline
- Wild Card Series Pitching Matchup
- Game 2 Timeline and Key Stats
- Future Outlook and Official Statements
- Frequently Asked Questions
- When will Nick Pivetta be eligible to pitch again after Game 2?
- How did Pivetta perform in his rehab outings?
- What impact does Pivetta’s return have on the Padres’ bullpen usage?
Nick Pivetta’s Injury and Recovery Timeline
Pivetta suffered a Grade 2 ulnar collateral ligament sprain in his right elbow during spring training, forcing him onto the 60‑day injured list on March 15. He underwent a non‑surgical platelet‑rich plasma (PRP) protocol and returned to minor‑league action on Aug. 12 with the Triple‑A El Paso Chihuahuas. — Kill. Bury. Print. Wins 2026 David Carr Award At Montclair Film
| Date | Event | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Mar 15 | Placed on 60‑day IL (right elbow) | Out for season start |
| Apr 20 | Underwent PRP injection | Rehabilitation began |
| Aug 12 | Debuted with El Paso (2 IP, 1 run) | Rehab start |
| Aug 20 | Completed 12‑start rehab (3.45 ERA) | Cleared for MLB |
| Sep 28 | Named Game 2 starter | Active roster |
MLB’s medical staff cleared Pivetta after he logged 12 innings with a 3.45 ERA and a 1.1 WHIP, meeting the club’s 2.0 WHIP threshold for postseason eligibility. — Austin Riley Leads Braves In MLB Playoff Opener Against Phillies
Wild Card Series Pitching Matchup
The Cubs will counter with right‑hander Ben Brown, who posted a 4.12 ERA in his last three regular‑season starts. Both clubs entered Game 2 with identical 1‑1 series records. — Grand Theft Auto VI Digital Issue Reveals Map And Gameplay Data
- Pivetta’s repertoire: four‑seam fastball (94‑96 mph), slider (86 mph), changeup (84 mph).
- Cubs’ bullpen depth: 7 relievers with sub‑3.00 ERA in September.
- Strategic note: Padres may limit Pivetta to 5–6 innings to preserve his elbow for a potential Game 3.
Game 2 Timeline and Key Stats
The game is scheduled for 9 p.m. CT on ESPN. Early‑season data suggest a 55 % win probability for the home team when a starter averages >94 mph fastball velocity.
| Metric | Pivetta (2024 Rehab) | Brown (2024) |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Fastball Velocity | 95 mph | 93 mph |
| Strikeouts per 9 IP | 9.2 | 7.8 |
| Walks per 9 IP | 2.1 | 3.4 |
| ERA | 3.45 | 4.12 |
Future Outlook and Official Statements
Padres manager Mike Shildt said, “Nick’s health is our top priority; we trust his preparation and will manage his workload.” Cubs manager David Ross added, “Ben is ready, but we respect the Padres’ decision to protect Pivetta.” Both clubs will reassess the rotation after Game 2, with the winner advancing to the Division Series. — Ranulph Fiennes Contact Restricted By Family Amid Health Concerns
Frequently Asked Questions
When will Nick Pivetta be eligible to pitch again after Game 2?
If the Padres win, Pivetta could appear in Game 3, but the club has indicated a maximum of 6 innings to protect his elbow.
How did Pivetta perform in his rehab outings?
He threw 12 innings across four starts, posting a 3.45 ERA, 1.1 WHIP, and a strikeout rate of 9.2 K/9.
What impact does Pivetta’s return have on the Padres’ bullpen usage?
The bullpen will likely see reduced early‑game work, but relievers may be called upon sooner if Pivetta’s innings are capped. — Georgia Availability Report: Nate Frazier And Isiah Canion Status
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