The New York Mets have a fresh opportunity to pursue Michael King as Major League Baseball’s free agency window opens on Monday. The right-hander officially elected free agency on Thursday after declining his player option with the San Diego Padres, a move confirmed by New York Post’s Jon Heyman. This development places an established, durable starter back on the market, offering the Mets a critical chance to bolster their rotation with a pitcher they have already vetted.
The right-hander’s opt-out creates a second chance for New York to secure a proven starter.
The two sides have a history of exploring a potential fit, having held a video meeting during last year’s Winter Meetings. King ultimately signed a three-year, $75 million deal with San Diego that included opt-outs after the first two seasons. His decision to test the market again follows a healthy 2026 campaign where he earned a $12 million signing bonus and a $5 million salary. By exercising his opt-out, King will collect a $5 million buyout, clearing him to sign with any team seeking immediate stability in the starting lineup.
For the Mets, this represents low-risk, high-reward business. They are not learning a new pitcher’s mechanics or personality; they are re-engaging with a known quantity who performed well in the National League West. As the free agency period begins, the Mets can leverage their prior interest to negotiate a potentially favorable deal, aiming to lock down a reliable arm before other contenders make their moves.
Source: Yahoo Sports
