Nick Pivetta Opts Out of WBC to Focus on Padres, Seeks Repeat Success

Nick Pivetta will forgo playing for Canada in the World Baseball Classic to concentrate on the San Diego Padres' 2026 season. After joining the rotation post-Spring Training in 2025, he emerged as the team's top arm. While trade rumors circulated, he's expected to return to the Padres. His career-best 2025 season, potentially aided by a deadened ball, raises questions about replicating his success, as he has only one career ERA under 4.00.