SAN FRANCISCO — The Padres could soon be adding a significant boost to what’s already a dominant bullpen.
Right-hander Jason Adam, who’s been on the injured list since July 2 with a right shoulder strain, was scheduled to begin a rehab assignment with Triple-A El Paso on Sunday.
Prior to his injury, Adam posted a 2.51 ERA in 36 appearances and 32 1/3 innings, providing another steady relief arm for manager Craig Stammen.
“Hopefully he has a good clean outing today,” said Stammen, “feels good, and then is able to get ready for his next one,” adding that Adam would likely see another rehab appearance before the club thought about activating him for his return to the roster.
With San Diego focused on narrowing its path toward securing a National League Wild Card spot, Adam rejoining fellow bullpen stalwarts Adrian Morejon, Mason Miller, Bradgley Rodriguez, Yuki Matsui and Wandy Peralta would be a big addition down the stretch.
Adam rejoining the bullpen ranks would be especially notable given the heavy workload of Rodriguez, whose sinker and four-seamer were both down more than 1 mph from his season averages in Saturday’s appearance against the Giants.
There’s no doubt the return of a healthy Adam would do wonders for the Padres as they manage their bullpen over the regular season’s final two weeks — and, they hope, beyond.