The New York Yankees are usually protagonists in every free agency, but this offseason the situation is different: the team already has a surplus of hitters, so the main need is not in the lineup, but in the starting rotation. With that in mind, a possible solution arises from an old acquaintance: Michael King.
The right-hander was traded in 2023 as a key piece in the deal for Juan Soto. After two seasons with the San Diego Padres, his continuity in California looks unlikely and his name is beginning to sound strong for a return to the Bronx.
Analysts look favourably on a return
According to MLB.com analyst Will Leitch, the move could be beneficial for both parties. “If you have the chance to sign Juan Soto, you should do it, even if it means losing a valuable arm,” he wrote. “Even so, it must have been frustrating to see King go from being a good pitcher in New York to practically an ace in San Diego. The Yankees have a chance to get him back and he would certainly help them.”
The comment adds an ironic twist: “If they sign him now, at least it’s safe to say they won’t trade him again for Soto.”
King offers quality, but with injury history
Michael King has dealt with physical problems in recent years, a factor that could generate caution in any negotiation. However, when he has been available, his repertoire has been as dominant as ever: a short, explosive fastball, accompanied by deep breaking pitches, make him an arm capable of competing at the highest level.
During his time in San Diego, King showed flashes of elite pitching, and his previous experience in New York would make him fit quickly into the environment and the demands of the franchise.
Yankees build a rotation for 2026
New York hopes to have Gerrit Cole back in early 2026, while Max Fried will be part of the long-term project
In addition, the team has other promising arms, but King would bring depth, experience and versatility to a rotation that is looking for stability.
A logical move in a competitive market
In a market where almost every contender is looking to bolster their pitching, betting on a familiar, proven pitcher like King could represent a competitive advantage for the Yankees
His return would not only be an attractive story, but also a strategic investment for a team that aspires to return to the forefront of the American League.
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