Free-agent right-hander Michael King has narrowed his options to three American League East teams: the Baltimore Orioles, Boston Red Sox, and New York Yankees. The 30-year-old former Padres pitcher, who declined a $22.025 million qualifying offer, is expected to make a decision soon amid interest from his former division. King's market is influenced by his strong 2024 performance and 2025 injury concerns.
Michael King, a 30-year-old right-handed starter, is drawing significant interest from the AL East during the 2025-26 MLB offseason. According to reports from the Boston Globe, the Orioles, Red Sox, and Yankees are competing for his services. King, who attended Boston College, declined the San Diego Padres' qualifying offer earlier this offseason, attaching draft pick compensation to any signing.
King's familiarity with the AL East stems from his time with the Yankees, where he debuted in 2019 and was traded to the Padres in the December 2023 Juan Soto deal. He posted a 2.95 ERA over 30 starts in 2024, finishing seventh in NL Cy Young voting and striking out 201 batters. However, shoulder and knee injuries limited him in 2025, resulting in a 3.44 ERA across 73.1 innings in 15 starts. A nerve issue in his throwing shoulder sidelined him for nearly three months, and upon return, he struggled with 12 runs allowed in 17.1 innings over five starts, managing 12 strikeouts and nine walks.
Despite the durability questions, King is viewed as a potential No. 2 starter. MLB Trade Rumors projects a four-year, $80 million contract, while Spotrac estimates four years at $91 million. ESPN's Jeff Passan noted he may opt for a shorter deal due to injury history. His career stats include a 3.24 ERA over 494.2 innings and 64 starts, showcasing versatility as both a starter and reliever.
The Red Sox, who acquired Sonny Gray and Johan Oviedo this offseason, seek depth behind Garrett Crochet. The Yankees aim to bolster their rotation ahead of Gerrit Cole and Carlos Rodon's returns, having signed Amed Rosario and Ryan Yarborough. The Orioles, fresh off signing Pete Alonso, continue aggressive spending to compete in the division.