San Diego Padres manager Mike Shildt Stun fans and left entire MLB Community in shock as He announced that pitcher Nick Pivetta has been made the…
In a move that few saw coming, San Diego Padres manager Mike Shildt shocked both fans and the broader Major League Baseball community this week when he announced that pitcher Nick Pivetta has been named the team’s new closer. The announcement came following a stretch of inconsistent bullpen performances, but Pivetta’s name wasn’t exactly one many had at the top of their list to take over one of the most high-pressure roles in baseball.
Shildt, known for his calm, analytical style and deep understanding of pitching, revealed the decision during a post-game press conference. “We’ve seen something in Nick over the past few weeks — his velocity, his confidence on the mound, his ability to command both sides of the plate. He’s earned this opportunity,” Shildt said. “We believe he has the mentality and the tools to succeed in late-game situations.”
Fans were quick to react — and “Pivetta as closer?” became a trending topic across social media platforms within minutes. Many San Diego faithful were stunned, primarily because Pivetta, a former starter with the Boston Red Sox and Philadelphia Phillies, has never served as a regular closer during his career. At age 31, he’s been viewed more as a long-relief or spot-start option, not someone typically tasked with shutting the door in the ninth.
But a closer look at his recent outings suggests Shildt might be onto something. Since being acquired by the Padres earlier this season, Pivetta has quietly put together an impressive run out of the bullpen. Over his last ten appearances, he’s held opponents to a sub-1.00 ERA and has struck out 18 batters over 11 innings. Perhaps more importantly, he’s shown a newfound confidence, attacking hitters with a mid-90s fastball and a nasty curve that’s been freezing even the league’s best.
Shildt’s decision also signals a shift in strategy for the Padres. With the bullpen struggling and previous closer Robert Suarez showing signs of fatigue, it seems the team is looking for a jolt — and Pivetta could be just the guy to provide it. MLB analysts, while initially surprised, are now taking a second look at Pivetta’s recent numbers and reconsidering their skepticism.
“This might actually be a genius move,” one MLB Network commentator said. “Sometimes the best closers aren’t the flamethrowers who come up through the system in that role. They’re the guys who’ve learned how to pitch, who’ve struggled, who’ve adjusted — and Pivetta checks those boxes.”
For his part, Pivetta appeared calm and grateful when asked about the promotion. “I’ve worked hard to put myself in a position to help this team win,” he said. “Whether it’s the first inning or the ninth, I’m ready.”
Time will tell if the move pays off, but one thing is certain: Mike Shildt has once again proven he’s not afraid to trust his gut and make bold decisions. And in a season where every game counts, this might just be the spark the Padres need.
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