Padres News: Joe Musgrove Could Reverse Course, Make Return if Friars Continue Postseason Push

It'd be quite the improbable story.

With the Padres winning their past eight games and nine out of their last ten overall, San Diego's playoff odds are on the way up with just weeks remaining in the season. 

Should the Friars make the improbable comeback from being dead and buried in the NL standings, one key arm could return to the mound and help the team make a playoff run once again. 

IF the #Padres were to make this improbable run, Musgrove’s goal would be to contribute but he wouldn’t start. He’ll also be getting tests to make sure things are ok to progress.

— Annie Heilbrunn (@annieheilbrunn) September 22, 2023

Musgrove's absence in the rotation has truly been felt as both he and fellow starter Yu Darvish getting hurt hasn't been the most ideal situation for Bob Melvin and his regular starting five. 

Though Darvish has already been shut down for the season, Musgrove isn't down for the count just yet despite some earlier reports.

The lefty could resume throwing as his team makes the improbable climb to the third NL Wild Card spot after a good recovery period. 

Musgrove's addition to the team certainly helps their chances against the Brewers for a potential postseason series, if the team makes the staggering recovery after every analyst had proclaimed them dead on arrival,

Only needing two of three victories to get the job done in an NL Wild Card series, Musgrove shoved against the Mets on the road in last season's version and there's no indication he can't get the job done in 2023 either. 

Though the team remains focused on playing winning baseball to close the regular season, it's hard not to look ahead at what lies ahead for the team. 

Blake Snell's brilliant pitching and a comeback victory spearheaded by Manny Machado and Juan Soto led to their most series win against the Dodgers, inspiring confidence for another potential 2023 NLDS series. 

Hoping for a sense of deja vu, Petco Park may see Musgrove and his teammates in October this year after all.