The New York Yankees will likely be one of the more active teams this offseason once again.
The Yankees have some holes in the rotation and bullpen, as pitching will be a major need once again this offseason. Major League Baseball analyst Rucker Haringey of FanSided urges the Yankees to sign San Diego Padres starter Michael King this offseason.
“The Yankees have missed Michael King ever since he was sent to San Diego in the trade that brought Juan Soto to the Bronx,” Haringey wrote. “This offseason they will have a unique chance to bring him back into the fold with a good offer in free agency. Unlike Bichette, King is hitting free agency at a bad time. He was a dominant starter in 2024, but he’s suffered through this season with several troubling injuries.
“Questions about his durability moving forward might scare off some teams who are looking for a front-line starter,” Haringey added. “The Yankees should know his body better than anyone since he grew up in their system. If they are comfortable with his health they should be at the front of the line to bring him back via free agency. They know he can handle the pressure of pitching in the Bronx, which sets him apart from the competition.”
King played for the Yankees from 2019 until 2023 and has a mutual option for $15 million, which will likely be turned down. King could be a middle-of-the-order rotation arm for the Yankees and be a nice bounce-back candidate.
The right-hander has dealt with injuries this season as he’s 4-2 with a 2.81 ERA in just 11 starts. However, his past success should still get him a big deal this offseason.
King Battled Injuries This Season
King has battled injuries this season, and he isn’t sure when he will return.
The 30-year-old hasn’t pitched in the majors since August 9, as it was his first start since May 18, but he’s back on the injured list. Now, as he’s back on the IL, King admits he isn’t sure when he will be back.
“I have no idea,” King said. “Honestly, it’s up to them. They kept telling me, ‘Just get through today.’”
King did throw a sim game, and he says he is feeling better, but still isn’t sure when he will return this season.
“Velo’s good, shapes were good,” King said after his session… “It’s been an easier rehab than the nerve that I had and obviously way more straightforward. If I can throw that velo and that command, I’ll be good.”
King will likely need a rehab outing before he returns to the majors.
Yankees Have a Rotation Need
New York could use another starter or two, and King would be a wise option this offseason.
The Yankees have Gerrit Cole, Max Fried, and Carlos Rodon all under contract, who will be their top-three starters. But Cole is returning from Tommy John surgery, so when he will be able to return is uncertain.
The Yankees do have Luis Gil, Cam Schlittler, and Will Warren all under contract as well for next year. But if New York is going to be a true World Series contender, the Yankees will need to add another impact starter this offseason.
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