Padres lose key player hours after World Series final out

MLB star declines player option, will enter free agency ahead of 2027.

By View All Posts · The Big Lead

Published: Thursday, 29 October 2026 at 2:53 PM

Key Things to Know

Padres pitcher Michael King declined his player option to enter free agency.
King walked away from two years and $58 million on his contract to test the open market.
The 31-year-old starter will receive a $5 million buyout from San Diego.

The Story in 60 Seconds

San Diego Padres right-handed pitcher Michael King has declined his player option to become a free agent. The decision came shortly after the conclusion of the 2026 World Series, leaving a major opening in the Padres' starting rotation ahead of the 2027 season.

According to reports, King opted out of the remaining two years and $58 million on his contract, receiving a $5 million buyout instead. The 31-year-old posted a 12-10 record with a 3.21 ERA across 32 regular-season starts in 2026 before entering free agency.

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Padres lose key player hours after World Series final out

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