Jason Adam Offers Hopeful Recovery Update
In a promising turn of events, San Diego Padres relief pitcher Jason Adam has provided an encouraging update regarding his recovery from a season-ending ruptured quad, an injury he sustained on September 1. Speaking with Jeff Sanders from The San Diego Union-Tribune, Adam expressed optimism about his return, stating there’s a “chance” he could be ready for opening day, completing his rehabilitation in just six months.
“I’m doing well,” Adam shared. “Just getting strength back is the biggest thing. God willing, I should be pitching in spring training. I don’t know if I’ll be right on time. There’s a chance I’m ready for opening day. That’s what we’re striving for, but we’re not going to be stupid about it.”
A Season Cut Short
The quad injury was a devastating conclusion to what had been an outstanding season for Adam. The right-hander pitched 65.1 innings, accumulating an impressive 1.93 ERA as a key figure in the Padres’ bullpen, a performance that earned him a 2.4 bWAR. His FIP stood at 3.07, indicating that while he thrived, he also benefited from solid defensive support.
At 33 years old, Adam made his first All-Star team, a milestone he reflected on with gratitude. “Hard to explain. Incredibly thankful,” he remarked when his selection was announced. “Thankful for the staff here giving me an opportunity to pitch. Thankful for my teammates picking me up on the nights I stunk. I don’t feel like I deserve it but I’m just incredibly thankful. … I’m overwhelmed with thankfulness. Didn’t feel like I could ever deserve this, but I feel blessed beyond measure.”
Statistical Standout
Adam’s success this past season was underscored by impressive metrics. According to Baseball Savant, he ranked in the 94th percentile for whiff percentage and expected ERA, as well as the 87th percentile for chase rate and the 95th percentile for expected batting average. He achieved this while averaging a fastball velocity of 94.6 mph, primarily utilizing his slider 35 percent of the time, complemented by a changeup 33 percent of the time, and relying on his fastball just 23 percent of the time.
Pacing His Return
As the Padres look ahead to the upcoming season, having an elite bullpen with significant depth will be crucial in managing Adam’s recovery. The team aims to ensure he returns at full strength, avoiding any premature rush back to action that could jeopardize his long-term health. If Adam’s recovery continues on its current trajectory, he appears poised for an early-season comeback, much to the relief of Padres fans and teammates alike.
