San Diego, December 20, 2025
The San Diego Padres have secured right-handed pitcher Michael King with a three-year contract worth $75 million. King has been an essential player in the Padres’ rotation since joining in 2023, boasting an impressive 3.10 ERA over the past two seasons. Despite facing injury challenges in 2025, he has shown resilience and is expected to enhance the team’s competitiveness moving forward. His contract includes opt-out clauses and a structured salary that provides flexibility for both the player and the team.
San Diego Padres Secure Michael King with Three-Year, $75 Million Contract
San Diego, CA – The San Diego Padres have re-signed right-handed pitcher Michael King to a three-year contract valued at $75 million, with opt-out clauses after the 2026 and 2027 seasons. The team announced the deal on Friday, December 19, 2025.
King, 30, has been a pivotal member of the Padres’ starting rotation since joining the team in December 2023. Over the past two seasons, he has compiled an 18-12 record with a 3.10 ERA, including a standout 2024 campaign where he achieved a 2.95 ERA with 201 strikeouts.
In 2025, King faced challenges with injuries, including a right shoulder issue and left knee inflammation, limiting him to 15 starts. Despite these setbacks, he maintained a 3.44 ERA, demonstrating his resilience and value to the team.
The Padres’ decision to secure King comes amid offseason changes, notably the departure of frontline starter Dylan Cease to Toronto and the anticipated absence of Yu Darvish for the entire 2026 season due to elbow surgery. With King back in the fold, the Padres’ rotation now includes Nick Pivetta and Joe Musgrove, who is expected to return from Tommy John surgery.
King’s contract structure offers flexibility, with a $12 million signing bonus and salaries of $5 million in 2026, $28 million in 2027 (with a $5 million buyout if he opts out), and $30 million in 2028 (with no buyout). This arrangement allows King to re-enter free agency after each of the next two seasons, depending on his performance and career trajectory.
By retaining King, the Padres aim to strengthen their pitching staff and enhance their competitiveness in the upcoming seasons.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the duration and value of Michael King’s new contract with the San Diego Padres?
The San Diego Padres have re-signed right-handed pitcher Michael King to a three-year contract valued at $75 million, with opt-out clauses after the 2026 and 2027 seasons.
What were Michael King’s performance statistics in the 2025 season?
In 2025, King faced challenges with injuries, including a right shoulder issue and left knee inflammation, limiting him to 15 starts. Despite these setbacks, he maintained a 3.44 ERA, demonstrating his resilience and value to the team.
How does Michael King’s contract structure work?
King’s contract structure offers flexibility, with a $12 million signing bonus and salaries of $5 million in 2026, $28 million in 2027 (with a $5 million buyout if he opts out), and $30 million in 2028 (with no buyout). This arrangement allows King to re-enter free agency after each of the next two seasons, depending on his performance and career trajectory.
Who are the other key pitchers in the Padres’ rotation for the upcoming season?
With King back in the fold, the Padres’ rotation now includes Nick Pivetta and Joe Musgrove, who is expected to return from Tommy John surgery.
Key Features of Michael King’s Contract
| Contract Details | Amount |
|---|---|
| Signing Bonus | $12 million |
| 2026 Salary | $5 million |
| 2027 Salary | $28 million (with $5 million buyout if he opts out) |
| 2028 Salary | $30 million (with no buyout) |
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