The San Diego Padres are in a difficult situation as a team, but that doesn’t mean the Atlanta Braves shouldn’t take advantage of it.
As a court battle over the Padres’ controlling stake begins, San Diego hasn’t been in the running for big-name free agents this offseason.
Former Padres All-Star Jurickson Profar signed with the Braves last week, citing the ownership turmoil as the reason he did not believe San Diego made an effort to lure him back on a higher-paying contract.
Meanwhile, the Braves could still require another starting pitcher following the departure of two-time All-Star Max Fried to the New York Yankees. And the Padres, who may be trying to cut salary, have plenty of starting pitchers.
Dylan Cease, a Padres superstar, has been a hot name in trade talks this winter, with only one year remaining on his deal. However, Harrison Smajovits of the Atlanta Braves recently claimed on Sports Illustrated that the Braves could instead target San Diego’s Michael King.
“Given that Cease is the bigger name of the two, with a much longer track record as a starter, the Braves would likely have to give up less to acquire a quality starter if they opt to make a move for King,” according to Smajovits.
“Cease is expected to earn $13.75 million in 2025. King could come in at roughly half the price. If the Braves are seeking to stay under the luxury tax and maybe make another trade after obtaining a starter, then the lesser salary would make the difference.”
King, 29, made his debut appearance as a full-time starter in 2024 and performed admirably. He had 201 strikeouts and a 2.95 ERA in 173 2/3 innings thrown, finishing eighth in the National League Cy Young contest.
King, who is projected to receive a $71 million extension when he enters free agency (according to Spotrac), could be a one-year rental acquisition for the Braves or a long-term staple in the rotation if they are ready to meet his requirements in order to keep him in Atlanta.
