At best, it seems Darvish’s first start would come at the back end of the rotation. The calendar and the Padres’ stated desire to preserve the 38-year-old right-hander so he can help them deeper into the season indicate his absence could be longer. Darvish played catch Tuesday, though only lightly and at about 60 feet for five minutes.

Injury woes for 38-year-old Yu Darvish are already cropping up, threatening the Padres pitcher's start to the season.

Manager Mike Shildt had previously cited "general fatigue" as the reason for a pause in Darvish's throwing schedule.