Padres Injury News: Bob Melvin Admits Playoff Picture Will Affect Joe Musgrove's Return Timeline

Joe Musgrove could return to the mound soon.

After being placed on the 15-day injured list with swelling in his shoulder capsule, right-handed starting pitcher Joe Musgrove could be on the mend.

He is currently scheduled to begin a throwing program on Friday, but manager Bob Melvin noted that the Friars will be cautious with his journey back to the mound.

“It’s not going to be an accelerated path forward,” Melvin said. “It’s going to be several of those before he would even consider getting on a mound, so we’re still a ways away.”

(Via

The San Diego Union-Tribune

)

When Musgrove was initially ruled out for at least three weeks, Padres President of Baseball Operations A.J. Preller told reporters that he hoped Musgrove could make it back this season, but they would keep his best interests a priority.

The Padres have had to dip into the minor leagues to replace Musgrove as they await his potential return. Most recently, Matt Waldron got the call, pitching 5 innings and allowing 5 earned runs against the Arizona Diamondbacks in Saturday's 6-4 loss.

San Diego is scrambling to gain momentum as the season nears its completion and the Padres still find themselves on the outside of the playoff picture looking desperately in.

Melvin suggested that the Padres' hunt for a spot in the National League Wild Card could play a part in Musgroves' recovery process.

“That would play into it,” Melvin said, “but it’s not going to be pushed. He has to feel great. If hypothetically we’re not there, I don’t know what that’s going to be, but we have to be very careful not to push the capsule. That’s not a great spot to re-injure.”

(Via

The San Diego Union-Tribune

)

Fortunately for the Friars, starting pitcher Michael Wacha has made his return to the mound after being place on the injured list in early July.