The Padres' starting right-hander Michael King has decided to forgo his $15 million player option for next year and enter free agency.

As the World Series recently ended, Padres' starting righty Michael King took the initiative to opt out of his contract and become a free agent. This decision is anticipated to trigger intense competition among clubs in the offseason.

King started his career with the New York Yankees, mainly as a relief pitcher. At the end of 2023, the Yankees traded him to the Padres in exchange for Juan Soto, giving King an opportunity to showcase his skills. Last season, he became a key starting pitcher for the Padres, appearing in 31 games with a 13-9 record, a 2.95 ERA, and 201 strikeouts.

This season, King's performance declined due to injuries, limiting him to only 15 appearances with a 3.44 ERA.

According to the latest reports, King has chosen to decline the Padres' $15 million contract option for next season, instead accepting a $3.75 million buyout and officially entering the free-agent market.

King has proven his capability as a starting rotation pitcher. The website Spotrac projects that upon entering free agency this offseason, he could secure a new contract worth approximately $23 million annually.