Overview
- Michael King returned to San Diego on a three-year, $75 million contract that includes player opt-outs after the first two seasons, removing a top-tier starter from free agency.
- The Yankees did not make an offer for King, per the New York Post’s Jon Heyman, as they pursue other targets despite urgent rotation needs.
- Injuries to Gerrit Cole, Carlos Rodón and Clarke Schmidt are expected to delay their 2026 debuts, increasing New York’s pressure to add pitching.
- The Mets, previously linked to King, now pivot to other rotation options after focusing early on the bullpen with Devin Williams (three years, $51 million) and Luke Weaver (two years, $22 million).
- Trade activity accelerated with Tampa Bay moving Shane Baz to Baltimore and routing Brandon Lowe to Pittsburgh in a three-team deal, while the Padres also added KBO infielder Sung-mun Song on a reported three-year pact.