After going 2–3 with a 15.71 ERA in 2002, the Indians decided not to re-sign Jaret. He became a free agent, and signed with the San Diego Padres in early 2003. He did not fare well in San Diego, going 1–5 with an 8.73 ERA in 39 games, all in relief. He was traded to the Atlanta Braves in August. He did not allow a run in all but one of his 11 appearances with the Braves, going 1–0 with a 2.00 ERA, and was told that he was going to be made a starting pitcher again for the next season.