Age: 31
Stats: 32 GS, 12-10, 3.21 ERA, 1.18 WHIP, 159 K, 185.0 IP
WAR: 4.3
Michael King rejoined the Padres last offseason on a three-year, $75 million deal, despite injuries that limited him to just 73.1 innings in 2025. The back-loaded deal included opt-outs after 2026 and 2027. He would be leaving $58 million on the table if he exercises that opt-out.
After a fully healthy season, punctuated by a fantastic postseason (3 G, 2 GS, 1-0, 1 SV, 0.64 ERA, 15 K, 14.0 IP), opting out should be a no-brainer. He would immediately slot in ahead of Trevor Rogers and Freddy Peralta as the No. 2 pitcher on the market.
Predicted Contract: 5 years, $120 million
Robbie Ray signed a five-year, $115 million deal following his Cy Young season in 2021. His earning power was somewhat limited by an inconsistent track record. With only two full seasons as a starter under his belt and injury issues in 2025, King has a comparable free agency outlook.