Michael King had been eyeing the Padres’ schedule to potentially face his former team, the Yankees, but due to rain in Atlanta, his rotation was shifted, and he did not get the opportunity. Disappointed but understanding of the situation, King helped with scouting reports of his former teammates. While sad to leave the Yankees and the friendships he had built, being traded to the Padres solidified his opportunity to be a full-time starting pitcher this season. The Yankees had moved King from the bullpen to the rotation last August, where he thrived, posting a 1.88 ERA in eight starts. The team had planned on keeping him in the rotation this year, but he was included in the trade package for Juan Soto in December.
The deal took longer to be completed as the Yankees tried to maneuver around including King, but the Padres insisted on having him in the trade. Despite the difficulty of parting ways with King, the Yankees felt it was the right move to acquire a talent like Juan Soto. In his 10 starts for the Padres, King has posted a 4.06 ERA with moments of dominance as well as struggles. Going back to being a starter has been a learning curve for King, requiring adjustments in mentality and approach. He credits his pitching coach for helping him navigate the transition.
King’s biggest adjustment as a starter has been learning to settle into games despite giving up early runs, as he was used to a different mindset as a reliever. Off the field, King is adjusting to the slower pace lifestyle in San Diego, missing aspects of life in New York but also relishing the opportunity to be a full-time starter. While he misses his friends, the food, and the proximity to family, he is focusing on making the most of his new opportunity in San Diego. Despite the bittersweet nature of the trade initially, King now sees it as a great opportunity for his career and is dedicated to making the most of it.
