Should the Cubs trade for another one-year rental in Padres' Michael King?

A report from The Athletic's Ken Rosenthal (subscription required) suggests San Diego Padres starter Michael King is potentially being shopped on the trade market, possibly opening up another avenue for the Chicago Cubs to improve their rotation.

King, who will be 30 years old on May 25, is coming off a career year with the Friars. After spending several years mostly pitching out of the bullpen for the New York Yankees, King was traded to San Diego as a main component in the Juan Soto deal. He was converted to a starting pitcher and saw massive success with the Padres in 2024.

The right-hander pitched to the tune of a 2.95 ERA over 173.2 innings in 30 starts. The 6'3 starter also used his cross-body delivery to collect 201 strikeouts, good for fifth in the National League last season. King fooled hitters despite his low fastball velocity (93.3 average mph), posting solid Whiff, strikeout, and hard-hit percentages by utilizing his plus sweeper and changeup.

Chicago Cubs, Michael King make a lot of sense on paper

King would certainly be an upgrade for the Cubs' rotation. His ability to wipe out hitters from the right side would bring a novel element to the team's current group of starters, which currently features three low-velocity lefties. The 29-year-old would also come fairly cheap financially. The Padres are currently at odds with King on his salary for 2025, with the team offering $7.325 million and King asking for $8.8 million.

Even if he ends up getting the higher end, King would be on a very team-friendly contract if he comes close to his 2024 production. Starting pitchers are currently asking for steep compensation on the open market, which is why names like Dylan Cease, Pablo Lopez, and Luis Castillo have been littered across trade rumors all offseason.

There are some risks though. After the season King just had, the Padres could ask for a couple of solid players or prospects even though he is only under team control for one more season. The price may be too rich for Jed Hoyer's blood, and I wouldn't blame him if the Padres asked for Owen Caissie or Matt Shaw. King also only has one proven season as a starter under his belt, and there is no guarantee that he will come anywhere near his 2024 stats after a change of scenery.

But it's a deal worth exploring since the Cubs are putting a lot of chips into the 2025 season. The two main moves of the Chicago's offseason involved trading for one-year rentals Kyle Tucker and closer Ryan Pressly. With Hoyer's contract expiring after 2025, this could be a pivotal season for the organization's future.