Michael King has signed a three-year, $75 million contract with the San Diego Padres, which includes opt-outs after the 2026 and 2027 seasons. This addition is crucial for the Padres’ rotation, especially with Yu Darvish out for 2026 and Dylan Cease also a free agent. King, who had a 3.44 ERA in an injury-limited season, previously had a standout year in 2024, finishing seventh in NL Cy Young voting. His unique contract structure offers him flexibility, allowing him to enter the market after either of the next two seasons.
