Yu Darvish is poised to make his highly anticipated return to the big leagues in 2025, as announced by Padres manager Mike Shildt. Darvish will be activated from the 60-day injured list to start Monday’s game against the Arizona Diamondbacks. His absence, caused by elbow inflammation that surfaced in mid-March, resulted in him missing over half the season.
While details regarding Darvish’s recovery were somewhat limited, Shildt indicated that the team trusted the veteran pitcher to oversee his rehabilitation, recognizing his expertise in understanding his condition and the necessary steps for recovery. Darvish participated in a single minor league rehab game on May 14, but persistent elbow soreness delayed his return.
Recent reports indicate that Darvish has successfully completed two simulated games in the past 12 days, with his latest outing reaching 64 pitches. This development suggests he has met the criteria for activation and is ready to step into a critical matchup against the Diamondbacks, a game that holds significant importance as the Padres aim to strengthen their position in the NL West standings.
The Padres currently lead Arizona by four games, and a solid performance from Darvish could not only bolster their playoff hopes but also hinder the Diamondbacks’ chances for a wild card spot. Although it may take some time for Darvish to regain his form, his return is a significant boost for San Diego. The team has managed to stay competitive with an improvised rotation due to injuries, thanks in part to strong performances from Nick Pivetta, Stephen Kolek, and Randy Vasquez, as well as an exceptional bullpen.
As Darvish embarks on his 20th professional season—comprising his time in both Nippon Professional Baseball and Major League Baseball—he approaches his 39th birthday next month. With a commendable 3.31 ERA from the previous season and an impressive playoff performance, the Padres are optimistic that Darvish can contribute effectively as they aim for a postseason run.
Given Darvish’s history of elbow issues, both he and the team remain focused on maintaining his health for the crucial months ahead. Fans and teammates alike are hopeful that his experience and skill will pave the way for a successful return and strong playoff stretch.