The Padres are heading into the offseason with a big hole in their rotation almost as soon as the 2026 World Series ended. Veteran right-hander Michael King has declined his player option, setting him up for free agency and leaving San Diego with a major decision to make for 2027.
“Padres star RHP Michael King declined his player option today and will be a free agent. Will be one of the most coveted players on market.”
King passed on the final two years and $58 million left on his deal, according to reports. He’ll collect a $5 million buyout and hit the open market after previously re-signing with the Padres on a three-year contract last offseason.
The move closes the latest chapter of King’s run in San Diego, which began before the 2024 season when he arrived in the blockbuster trade that sent Juan Soto to the New York Mets. Once known mainly as a reliever during the first five years of his career, King settled into a full-time starting role with the Padres and became one of the steadier arms in their rotation.
That reliability showed again in 2026. King made 32 regular-season starts, finishing 12-10 with a 3.21 ERA and a 1.18 WHIP.
In the playoffs, he gave San Diego real help, appearing in three games and starting two of them. Over 14 innings, he gave up one run on five hits and struck out 15.
Now the Padres have to figure out how to replace that production. King’s departure leaves real questions in the rotation, and his free agency figures to draw plenty of attention. With his track record and postseason work, he profiles as one of the most appealing starters on the market as teams search for proven help.
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