Hughes hadn't pitched since 2018 and was released in August of that season after struggling to a 6.34 ERA. His best years came with the Yankees; winning 18 games in 2010 and 16 games in 2012. He won 16 more games for the Twins in 2014, but struggled to stay healthy after moving to Minnesota, and wasn't particularly effective when he was on the bump with an ERA of 6.01 from 2016-2018. 

In addition to the money remaining on his contract for 2018, Hughes was due a $13.2 million base salary in 2019, so it was no surprise the Padres couldn't find any takers for him via trade or waiver claim after he was designated for assignment last week. The Padres ultimately elected to wash their hands of Hughes altogether, allowing the 32-year-old righty to explore his options elsewhere. Given that he's supplied a 6.34 ERA and 1.65 WHIP over 23 appearances (two starts) this season between San Diego and Minnesota, Hughes will likely have to settle for a minor-league contract if he chooses to keep his career going.

Hughes was cast off the roster in order to make room for Jacob Nix, who will be making his major-league debut against the Phillies on Friday. Across 16 appearances with the Padres this year, Hughes logged a 6.10 ERA and 1.69 WHIP with a 24:5 K:BB in 20.1 innings of relief.

Hughes will be available out of the Padres' bullpen for Friday's tilt in Arizona after missing the past couple weeks due to a right rhomboid strain. He's appeared in seven games for San Diego this year, logging a pedestrian 6.23 ERA and 1.85 WHIP. Look for him to serve out of low-leverage situations.