Voluntary Retirement: If he decides he cannot play and officially retires, the remaining $46 million (roughly $16M in 2026, $15M in 2027, and $15M in 2028) would likely come off the Padres’ books, providing them with financial relief.
Injury/Buyout Option: Because he is currently rehabbing from major elbow surgery (UCL and flexor tendon repair) following a difficult 2025 season, it is possible for him to negotiate a settlement or simply stay on the injured list.
Other Options: Rather than a simple retirement, Darvish and the Padres might explore a potential buyout or a transition into a special advisor/front-office role, which could allow him to collect some compensation, notes
