Padres Lock Down Ace Michael King with Surprise $75 Million Deal

Michael King has signed a new contract with the San Diego Padres. The deal is worth $75 million over three years. It was announced on Thursday, securing the right-hander’s immediate future.

The agreement includes opt-out clauses after the 2026 and 2027 seasons. This gives King flexibility while providing the team stability. According to reports from Reuters, the annual value aligns with market expectations for a pitcher of his caliber.

From Yankees Reliever to Padres Rotation Anchor

King’s journey to this deal is unique. He spent his first five MLB seasons with the New York Yankees. Most of that time was spent as a reliever.

He was traded to San Diego in the Juan Soto deal. The Padres moved him into their starting rotation immediately. He excelled in his new role during the 2024 season.

King posted a 2.95 ERA over 173 innings that year. He struck out 201 batters. His performance cemented him as a core piece of the staff.

Overcoming Injury and Securing the Future

The 2025 season presented a major challenge. King began the year as the Opening Day starter. He was dominant through his first nine outings.

Then a thoracic nerve issue in his shoulder sidelined him. The injury cost him nearly three months. Later knee inflammation further delayed his return.

Despite the setbacks, Padres President A.J. Preller showed strong faith. The new contract signals the team believes his health issues are behind him. King is now positioned to lead a rotation that includes Nick Pivetta and a returning Joe Musgrove.

This move likely signals more roster changes. Adding $25 million to the payroll suggests a corresponding move is coming. The Padres’ offseason strategy remains active and unpredictable.

This deal solidifies the Padres’ rotation for the coming years. Locking down Michael King provides crucial certainty. San Diego’s pitching staff looks far stronger today.

A quick knowledge drop for you

What are the terms of Michael King’s new contract?

Michael King’s deal is for three years and $75 million. It includes player opt-outs after both the 2026 and 2027 seasons. The average annual value is $25 million.

Why is this contract considered a surprise?

Many analysts expected King to test free agency after the season. The Padres were not widely predicted to make a major financial commitment this offseason. Securing him now prevents a bidding war later.

How did King perform after joining the Padres?

He thrived as a starter in 2024, with a 2.95 ERA and 201 strikeouts. His 2025 season was disrupted by a shoulder injury and knee inflammation. The team is betting on a return to his 2024 form.

What does this mean for the Padres’ payroll?

The $25 million annual addition likely means another financial move is coming. The team may need to offset this cost elsewhere on the roster. Further trades or adjustments are anticipated.

Who will be in the Padres rotation now?

King and Nick Pivetta are projected at the top. Joe Musgrove is returning from Tommy John surgery. Randy Vásquez and other additions will compete for the remaining spots.