Joe Musgrove Out for Season With UCL Injury

San Diego Padres pitcher Joe Musgrove will undergo Tommy John surgery due to a ulnar collateral ligament injury, effectively ending his season and likely sidelining him for all of 2025. Musgrove's injury occurred during the NL Wild Card Series against the Atlanta Braves, where he left Game 2 after experiencing elbow tightness. His absence is a significant blow to the Padres as they prepare for the NL Division Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers, with manager Mike Shildt expressing confidence in the team's resilience. The Padres will rely on Dylan Cease and Yu Darvish to fill the void left by Musgrove, who was crucial to the team's success this season. Despite Musgrove's previous struggles with injuries, his leadership and performance had made him a key figure for the Padres. The team must now adapt their strategy and lean on their pitching depth to maintain their playoff hopes.