San Diego Padres starting pitcher Michael King has declined his player option for the 2027 season, becoming a free agent, according to a report Thursday. The decision allows King to test the open market this offseason after spending the 2026 campaign with the Padres.
King, who joined San Diego via trade prior to the 2024 season, posted a 3.75 ERA over 173.2 innings in 2026 while striking out 168 batters. The right-hander has established himself as a reliable mid-rotation starter since converting from a relief role with the New York Yankees.
The 29-year-old's move to free agency creates a notable vacancy in the Padres' starting rotation as the club prepares for the upcoming offseason. San Diego will likely explore both internal options and external additions to fill the spot alongside established starters Yu Darvish and Joe Musgrove.
