UPDATE: The San Diego Padres have just announced a significant three-year, $75 million contract with right-hander Michael King, according to sources reported by ESPN’s Jeff Passan. This deal allows King to opt out after both the 2026 and 2027 seasons, marking a pivotal moment for the franchise.
King, who faced injury challenges in the previous season, made 15 starts in 2025, grappling with a knee injury and a nerve issue in his right shoulder. Despite these setbacks, he finished the season with a record of 5-3, a 3.44 ERA, and 76 strikeouts across 73.1 innings pitched.
The 30-year-old pitcher previously showcased his talent in 2024, where he achieved a 3.9 WAR and an impressive 2.95 ERA in 30 starts, ultimately placing seventh in the Cy Young Award voting that year. His performance was hampered in 2025, particularly due to a significant increase in damage from his four-seam fastball, which saw a spike in slugging percentage from .402 to .814.
Before joining the Padres, King spent his first five seasons with the New York Yankees, compiling a career record of 31-29 with a 3.24 ERA and 559 strikeouts. King’s previous performance and potential make this signing a promising move for the Padres as they aim to bolster their pitching staff.
The Padres tendered King a $22.025 million qualifying offer, which he declined by the November 18 deadline. As they look to enhance their roster for the upcoming seasons, fans and analysts alike are eager to see how King’s return to form could impact the team’s pursuit of success.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops, and watch for King’s performance as he embarks on this new chapter with the Padres.