Yankees Consider Reunion with Michael King to Strengthen Rotation
The New York Yankees are actively seeking ways to enhance their pitching rotation this offseason, and a familiar face may be on their radar. Reports suggest that the Yankees could be looking to re-sign former pitcher Michael King, who was traded to the San Diego Padres two years ago as part of a blockbuster deal involving Juan Soto and Trent Grisham. According to insights from The Athletic, the prospect of a King reunion is gaining traction.
King’s Background with the Yankees
Drafted by the Miami Marlins in the 12th round of the 2016 MLB Draft, King’s journey to the Yankees began when he was traded to New York in November 2017, just over a year after being drafted. He made his Major League debut on September 19, 2019, and showcased his talent immediately, not allowing an earned run in his first outing against the Texas Rangers. Over his tenure with the Yankees, which extended through the 2023 season, King compiled a solid 3.38 ERA across 115 appearances, including 19 starts. His trade to the Padres was part of a significant five-player exchange that brought Soto and Grisham to New York, both of whom made notable impacts during their time with the franchise.
Why a Reunion is Appealing
Since his departure, King has continued to demonstrate his pitching prowess. In 2024, he emerged as one of the top starters in the National League, finishing with an impressive 2.95 ERA over 173 2/3 innings, earning him a seventh-place finish in Cy Young Award voting. While he faced challenges with shoulder and knee injuries in the subsequent season, limiting him to 15 starts and a 3.44 ERA, his performance when healthy remains an asset.
Despite concerns about his durability, King stands out as one of the prime rotation options available this offseason. The Yankees, known for their aggressive approach to acquiring top-tier talent, have a track record of securing big-name pitchers, having signed stars like Gerrit Cole, Carlos Rodón, and Max Fried to lucrative contracts in recent years. With both Rodón and Cole facing extended recoveries—Rodón from elbow issues and Cole from Tommy John surgery—the Yankees find themselves in need of reinforcements in their rotation.
The Fit for the Yankees
Reuniting with King makes sense for multiple reasons. Not only does he bring a proven track record and familiarity with the organization, but his ability to limit hard contact—evidenced by an average exit velocity of just 87.8 mph against him—could help stabilize a rotation in transition. The Yankees are clearly motivated to bolster their pitching staff, and bringing back a player who has already worn the pinstripes could be a strategic move as they navigate the upcoming season.
As the Yankees look to reclaim their position among the league’s elite, the potential return of Michael King could represent a significant step in solidifying their pitching depth and enhancing their chances for success.
