Michael King Declines Option With Padres to Hit Free Agency

Michael King declined his $28 million player option with the San Diego Padres for 2027 to hit free agency after securing a $5 million buyout. The 31-year-old right-hander is coming off a strong 2026 campaign where he logged a 3.21 ERA and 1.18 WHIP over 32 regular-season starts before allowing just one run across 14 postseason innings. Ranked as a top free-agent pitcher seeking a multi-year deal, he is projected to land a five-year contract worth around $140 million.