Yu Darvish contemplating retirement, refutes premature reports

Yu Darvish is contemplating retirement and leaning towards voiding the remaining three years and $43 million on his contract with the San Diego Padres. This consideration follows UCL repair surgery, which will sideline him for most, if not all, of the 2026 season. While initial reports suggested his retirement was final, Darvish and his agent refuted these as premature, stating no formal decision has been made. He made 15 starts last season and is focused on rehab, with retirement an option if he cannot return to throwing.