The Case for Michael King: Why His Short Season Deserves a $87 Million Contract Despite Injury Setbacks

Starting pitcher Michael King’s 2025 season with the San Diego Padres was brief but impressive. Despite starting only 15 games due to injury, King posted a solid 3.44 earned run average (ERA). This performance, combined with his potential and skill set, makes a strong argument for a lucrative contract worth $87.1 million over four years. This post explores why King’s short season should not diminish his value and why investing in him is a smart move for the Padres or any team looking to strengthen their rotation.

Photo Courtesy of Sports Illustrated

Michael King’s Performance Despite Limited Starts

Injuries limited King to just 15 starts in the 2025 season, a number far below what a healthy starter would typically achieve. However, his 3.44 ERA shows he was effective when on the mound. To put this in perspective:

• The average ERA for starting pitchers in the MLB in 2023 was around 4.00.

• King’s ERA was significantly better than average, indicating strong run prevention.

• His strikeout rate and walk rate also reflected solid command and ability to dominate hitters.

  
  

King’s ability to maintain such performance despite limited innings suggests he has the talent and resilience to be a frontline starter.

Why Injuries Should Not Overshadow King’s Value

Injuries are a common challenge for pitchers, and teams often hesitate to offer large contracts to players with recent health issues. However, King’s case deserves a closer look:

• His injuries were not chronic or career-threatening but rather setbacks that can be managed with proper care.

• Modern sports medicine and rehabilitation techniques have improved recovery outcomes for pitchers.

• King has shown a strong work ethic and commitment to returning to full strength and is currently healthy.

  
  

These factors suggest King’s injury history should not be a major deterrent when considering his contract value.

The Market for Starting Pitchers and King’s Place in It

Starting pitchers with King’s skill level and potential command high salaries in today’s MLB market. The demand for reliable starters is strong, and teams are willing to invest heavily in pitchers who can anchor their rotation. Consider these points:

• Comparable pitchers with similar ERAs and strikeout rates have signed contracts in the $20 million per year range.

• King’s upside add to his value, as he could improve further with more experience as a starter.

• A four-year, $87.1 million deal averages to about $21.8 million per year, aligning with market rates for pitchers of his caliber.

  
  

This contract would reflect both King’s current performance and his potential to be a key contributor for years to come.

What King Brings to the Padres and Potential Impact

King’s presence in the Padres’ rotation offers several benefits:

• Stability: A reliable starter who can consistently deliver quality innings.

• Depth: Adds depth to a rotation that has faced injuries and inconsistency.

• Competitiveness: Has elite stuff for a starting pitcher and has playoff experience.

• Leadership: As King gains experience, he can become a leader in the clubhouse and mentor younger pitchers.

  
  

Investing in King is not just about numbers but also about building a competitive and resilient team.

Addressing Concerns About the Contract Length and Value

Some may argue that a four-year contract is risky given King’s injury history. However, this contract length balances risk and reward:

• Four years provide enough time for King to prove his durability and value.

• The contract offers financial security to King, motivating him to maintain peak performance.

• The Padres or any team signing him can structure the deal with incentives and protections related to health.

  
  

This approach ensures both parties benefit and mitigates potential downsides.