Michael King Inks 3-Year, $75M Deal with Padres, Includes Opt-Outs

Right-hander Michael King has re-signed with the San Diego Padres on a three-year, $75 million contract. The deal includes a $12 million signing bonus, $5 million in 2026, and player options for $28 million in 2027 and $30 million in 2028, allowing him to opt out after the 2026 and 2027 seasons. King, acquired in the Juan Soto trade, had a breakout 2024 (2.95 ERA, 201 K in 30 starts, 7th in NL Cy Young voting) but an injury-riddled 2025 (shoulder, knee inflammation), posting a 3.44 ERA in 15 starts, drawing interest from the Mets and Yankees.