Griffin Canning Struggles in 2026 Season Before Bullpen Resurgence

Griffin Canning signed a one-year, $2.5 million deal with the San Diego Padres following an Achilles injury. In 30 appearances, including 11 starts, he struggled with a 5.68 ERA, 1.52 WHIP, and .276 opponent batting average. After surrendering three or more runs in seven of his first ten starts, Canning transitioned from the rotation into a bulk relief role. He flourished in the bullpen, pitching to a 2.70 ERA after July 23 and finishing the 2026 season with an overall grade of C.