Michael King Declines Player Option to Enter Free Agency Again

Michael King has officially declined his player option with the San Diego Padres, becoming a free agent for the second consecutive year. Coming off a career-high 185 innings and solid postseason performances, King is expected to command strong interest as one of the market's top starting pitchers. New Padres ownership holds an exclusive five-day window to negotiate an extension with King before he formally engages with other MLB clubs.