UPDATE: The San Diego Padres have just announced a groundbreaking agreement with right-hander Michael King on a three-year, $75 million contract, sources confirmed to ESPN’s Jeff Passan earlier today. This deal not only secures King for the coming seasons but also includes options for him to opt out after the 2026 and 2027 seasons, amplifying the stakes for both the player and the team.
King, who faced significant challenges last season, made only 15 starts in 2025 due to a knee injury and a nerve issue in his right shoulder. Despite these setbacks, he managed a record of 5-3 with a 3.44 ERA and 76 strikeouts over 73 1/3 innings pitched. His performance reflects resilience and potential, making him a valuable asset for the Padres moving forward.
In stark contrast to his prior season, when he posted an impressive 3.9 WAR and a 2.95 ERA in 30 starts during 2024, King’s recent struggles, particularly with his four-seam fastball, have raised concerns. The slugging percentage against this pitch skyrocketed from .402 to .814, indicating a pressing need for improvement.
“We are excited to have Michael on board for the next few years,” said a Padres official. “His talent and determination are exactly what we need to compete at the highest level.”
Before joining the Padres, King spent five seasons with the New York Yankees, where he compiled a career record of 31-29 with a 3.24 ERA and 559 strikeouts. The Padres extended him a qualifying offer of $22.025 million, which he declined by the November 18 deadline, paving the way for this lucrative new contract.
As baseball fans eagerly anticipate the upcoming season, all eyes will be on King to see if he can reclaim his form and deliver on the promise shown in previous seasons. The Padres are banking on his experience and skill to bolster their pitching lineup as they aim for a more successful campaign.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as the Padres gear up for what promises to be an electrifying season ahead.
