Padres’ Michael King re-signing helps alleviate significant losses

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 sRead More