Joe Musgrove Injury: Padres Starter Out Weeks After Big Toe Fracture

DCM

David Chao, MD

2 min read • February 28, 2023

Posted in

MLB
Joe Musgrove Injury: Padres Starter Out Weeks After Big Toe Fracture

Padres starter Joe Musgrove will likely miss the first few weeks of the season after suffering a fractured left big toe in the weight room.

Musgrove reportedly suffered the fracture after dropping a kettlebell on his toe, which is not the worst outcome given that it’s unlikely the fracture involved the nail bed, according to the Pro Baseball Docs.

The fact the injury is on his left foot is also slightly good news, as any injury to his right big toe would have had a bigger impact on his ability to push off during his delivery, according to the Pro Baseball Docs.

Musgrove will reportedly be evaluated in two weeks and the hope is he can ramp up his throwing program at that point. 

Either way, Musgrove is unlikely to be ready for opening day. The over/under for his return will likely line up with Fernando Tatis’ return date from suspension: April 20.

Good news and a smooth recovery could have Musgrove back before that date, while any setback would likely push his return to late April/early May.

Free agent addition Michael Wacha will likely slot into the rotation until Musgrove is ready.

Musgrove had a 10-7 record last season with a 2.93 ERA and 184 strikeouts in 30 starts.

Padres World Series Odds

San Diego is +950 to win the World Series and +130 to win the National League West, according to FanDuel Sportsbook.

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