Cardinals linked to Padres pitcher Michael King for potential offseason move

The St. Louis Cardinals are identified as a potential landing spot for San Diego Padres starting pitcher Michael King this offseason. Analysts suggest King, who holds a 3.00 ERA during the 2026 season, would provide a veteran boost to the St. Louis starting rotation. Any potential acquisition depends on the 31-year-old pitcher opting out of his existing three-year, $75 million contract. If he declines his player option for 2027, he is expected to command a contract with an average annual value exceeding his current $25 million rate. Chaim Bloom is focused on long-term strategy for the Cardinals, and experts indicate that King’s command and diverse five-pitch arsenal make him a suitable candidate for the team. While the move remains speculative pending contract decisions, industry projections list the Cardinals among the early potential suitors for the veteran starter.

• 7:14 PMYahoo Sports — Cardinals linked to 3.00 ERA pitcher for potential ideal free agent match