Michael King Signs 3-Year Deal with Padres After Injury-Stricken 2025
The San Diego Padres have secured right-hander Michael King with a three-year deal worth $75 million. This agreement aims to reinforce the team’s starting rotation while addressing their pressing pitching needs.
Contract Details
The contract includes various financial components:
- $12 million signing bonus
- $5 million salary for the 2026 season
- $28 million player option for 2027 with a $5 million buyout
- $30 million player option for 2028
Injury History and Performance
At 30 years old, King faced challenges last season due to injuries. A long thoracic nerve issue affected his shoulder, limiting his performance during what was supposed to be a pivotal contract year. He managed only 15 starts and returned in August with knee inflammation.
Despite these setbacks, King displayed significant potential. He achieved a notable strikeout rate and maintained a 3.44 ERA. These factors underscored his capabilities, which the Padres hope to leverage moving forward.
Previous Achievements
King had a successful 2024 season, posting a 2.95 ERA along with 201 strikeouts. He finished seventh in the National League Cy Young Award voting that year. His impressive performance followed a major trade that brought him to the Padres in December 2023 as part of the deal that sent Juan Soto to the New York Yankees.
Current Team Needs
The Padres are in urgent need of starting pitching. They recently lost Dylan Cease to the Toronto Blue Jays and Yu Darvish is facing elbow surgery. This leaves them with a rotation featuring trade candidate Nick Pivetta and others with uncertain roles.
Faced with a limited budget, the Padres are also weighing options regarding their roster. They have explored the possibility of trading Pivetta, who can opt out of his contract after the upcoming season.
Luxury Tax Considerations
After re-signing King, the Padres’ projected luxury tax number stands at $259 million, exceeding the tax threshold of $244 million. This financial consideration adds another layer to their strategic planning as they manage their roster and budget.
Looking Ahead
The return of Michael King may prove advantageous for both him and the Padres. King can work to improve his value in a familiar setting and potentially re-enter the free-agent market while still in his early 30s. His pitching style, characterized by soft contact and movement, allows him to effectively navigate opposing lineups and go deep into games.
As the Padres aim to strengthen their rotation, the focus will be on King’s ability to recover and perform consistently in the upcoming season.
