The Boston Red Sox began the season with some obvious gaps on their roster, particularly in the starting rotation. They quickly addressed part of that need by acquiring Sonny Gray in a trade with the St. Louis Cardinals.
However, it’s still uncertain whether that will be their only move to strengthen the rotation. Boston may pursue another high-end arm on the market.
Ryan Finkelstein of Just Baseball reveal that the Red Sox will sign San Diego Padres pitcher Michael King this offseason on a three-year deal worth about $66 million.
“Even if he doesn’t get any five-year offers, King should be able to match the salary from the qualifying offer at the very least, and still get the security of a multi-year deal,” Finkelstein wrote. “King seems like the type of free agent that can get three guaranteed years now, with an opt-out or opt-outs being included so he can test the market again after a healthy season.
“If King posts 30 starts in 2026, he can become a free agent ahead of his age-32 season and shop for a long-term deal, when no longer encumbered by the qualifying offer. Now, when it comes to a landing spot for King, signing with the Boston Red Sox could make some sense, as they have a need for a No. 2 behind Garrett Crochet. King can join the other side of the Yankee-Red Sox rivalry, and pitch in a prominent role on an up-and-coming Boston team.”
This would be the perfect move for the Red Sox.
It would upgrade their rotation with another reliable veteran, which would take some stress off the shoulders of their top prospects. But it would do so at an affordable cost. The cost is the most important aspect of the idea for the Red Sox.
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