The San Diego Padres have reportedly explored trading starting pitcher this offseason. However, with Opening Day approaching, a trade seems unlikely in the immediate future.
That said, if the Padres fall out of playoff contention, they could still move Him later in the season. The right-hander has a mutual option at the end of the year, making him a potential trade candidate as an expiring contract. Spotrac projects Him to land a four-year, $71 million deal if he reaches free agency next winter.
FanSided’s Jacob Mountz recently predicted that the Padres would eventually trade King to the Atlanta Braves.
“Earlier this year, reports indicated that the Braves inquired about Padres starters Michael King and Dylan Cease,” Mountz wrote. “Of the two, King is the more affordable option for now, with a $4 million salary in 2025. His $15 million mutual option for 2026 exceeds the $13.75 million Cease will make this season in his contract year. While both pitchers would be valuable additions, I believe the Braves will target King.
“Cease would be the costlier trade asset, especially since King’s option can be declined. Although Cease has greater upside, King has delivered better results in recent years. Furthermore, the Padres’ steep asking price for Cease has discouraged potential suitors, making a deal for King more feasible. The Braves have limited pitching depth and are unlikely to deplete their farm system for a rental.”
While Atlanta’s rotation is stronger than many assume, they did lose both Charlie Morton and Max Fried this offseason. However, they expect Spencer Strider to return soon, and top prospect AJ Smith-Shawver has shown big-league potential this spring.
If injuries deplete Atlanta’s pitching staff as they did last season, a trade for King would make more sense. But if the Braves stay healthy, they may only need to wait for Strider’s return to solidify their rotation.
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