The Padres will hand the ball to Nick Pivetta for Tuesday’s Game 3 of the National League Division Series against the Brewers in San Diego, with manager Craig Stammen choosing the right-hander for the first home game of the series.
Pivetta is set up on five days’ rest after following Michael King in Game 2 of the National League Wild Card Series against the Cubs. His assignment was the expected move for a club that has watched him return from a long injury absence and quickly reclaim a prominent place in its October pitching plans.
“He threw the ball well after coming back in September,” Stammen said. “He also gave us a good outing against the Cubs. He has shown he can deal with the moment, and we believe in his stuff.”
Pivetta’s return has strengthened the rotation
A flexor strain in Pivetta’s right elbow sidelined him for five months, but he has been sharp since coming off the injured list on Sept. 7. Including his Wild Card Series appearance, he owns a 1.64 ERA since his return, emerging as a reliable second option behind King.
His Cubs outing did not come without some traffic. Pivetta worked 3 1/3 innings and had runners to manage, yet surrendered only one run. With San Diego holding a lead in what could have been a clinching game, the Padres were always likely to turn matters over to their bullpen early rather than stretch their starter.
The Game 3 choice also leaves the Padres flexibility beyond Tuesday. Walker Buehler remains on the paternity list and could be positioned for a possible Game 4, should the series require it.
Game 2 is scheduled for 4 p.m. ET, 3 p.m. CT and 1 p.m. PT, with coverage on FS1, FOX Deportes and FOX One.
