The San Diego Padres found themselves with the unenviable task of attempting to keep pace with the Los Angeles Dodgers while dealing with payroll concerns. They took a step in that direction Thursday night. Mark Feinsand from MLB.com reported that the Padres are re-signing pitcher Michael King to a three-year, $75 million contract. He will receive a $12 million signing bonus and $5 million for 2026, with the option to opt out after the 2026 and 2027 seasons. He would receive $28 million in 2027, or a $5 million buyout, and $30 million in 2028. King made just 15 starts for the Padres in 2025 due to a pinched nerve in his right shoulder and left knee inflammation. He performed well when he was able to take the ball, posting a 3.44 ERA and a 1.200 WHIP over his 73.1 innings, striking out 76 batters with 26 walks. The Padres pitching staff had suffered a pair of significant losses during the offseason. Starter Dylan Cease signed a seven-year, $210 million contract with the Blue Jays, while closer Robert Suarez s
