Back to the San Diego Padres Newsfeed

3 starting pitchers Padres can target after Michael King's mutual option declined

The Padres need innings and impact, not headlines. Here are the three clearest paths to both.

Sep 21, 2025; Arlington, Texas, USA; Texas Rangers starting pitcher Merrill Kelly (23) pitches against the Miami Marlins during the third inning at Globe Life Field. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images | Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

What was widely expected officially became a reality on Sunday, as Padres starting pitcher Michael King has declined his mutual option, opening the door for him to test free agency. The 30-year-old qualified for a deal on the open market worth $7 million more than if he were to accept the option.