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Pivetta becomes free agent after Padres decline '27 team option (source)

The San Diego Padres have declined their $14 million team option on veteran right-handed pitcher Nick Pivetta, sending him into free agency ahead of the 2027 season. Pivetta, now 33, made just eight starts for the Padres last year after missing nearly five months due to a right elbow flexor strain, though he showed promise in his final four appearances, posting a 1.45 ERA over 18⅔ innings.

He also contributed two postseason starts, allowing three runs over 7⅓ frames in the NL Wild Card and Division Series. The Padres’ decision follows a similar move earlier this week, when starter Michael King opted out of his contract to pursue free agency, leaving the team’s rotation with significant gaps for next season.

Meanwhile, left-handed reliever Wandy Peralta exercised his $4.45 million player option to return to San Diego for 2027, where he posted a 3.61 ERA across 65 appearances last year, primarily out of the bullpen.

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