The Cubs need rotation help, and Michael King could be their answer. With Justin Steele lost for the season, Chicago’s promising start is threatened by a significant hole in their starting staff.
King, who broke out as a starter last season, might become available if the Padres’ season goes sideways. He’s headed for free agency after this season, potentially making him a prime trade candidate if San Diego falls out of contention.
Newsweek’s Zach Pressnell proposed a potential deal that would send King to Chicago:
- Cubs receive: RHP Michael King
- Padres receive: 2B/OF James Triantos, OF Kevin Alcántara, RHP Jaxon Wiggins
“King is one of the best options on the market for the Cubs to bring in this season, but it would take quite a bit to lure him away from San Diego,” wrote Pressnell. “As of now, the Padres are one of the best teams in the league, so it might be a bit less likely that they opt to trade one of their best pitchers even if he’s on an expiring deal.”
The reality is straightforward: if the Padres remain in contention, King isn’t going anywhere. But the Cubs might be willing to overpay knowing Steele’s injury has put them in a tough spot.
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With Kyle Tucker leading the way, the Cubs look like legitimate postseason contenders. That’s what makes Steele’s absence so critical. Even if acquiring King requires parting with premium prospects, Chicago might pull the trigger if they believe they have a shot at October glory.
“Triantos and Alcántara are two big league-ready prospects who could step up for the Padres in the next year or two,” Pressnell noted. “The Padres are losing a few guys to free agency next offseason, so this pair of prospects would be a huge addition for San Diego. Wiggins is a talented pitching prospect with a devastating fastball and slider combination. The righty could quickly fly up the minor leagues if he can stay in the zone with those two offerings. The Cubs would need to be willing to part ways with a few of these top prospects to land a pitcher like King, but it’s a trade worth investing in for Chicago.”
King’s value is clear. Last season, he posted a 2.95 ERA in 30 starts and finished seventh in NL Cy Young voting. The Cubs certainly have the financial resources to extend him beyond this season, while the Padres may have already accepted they can’t retain him long-term.
In the end, San Diego’s place in the standings as July approaches will likely determine King’s availability. If they’re contending, he stays. If they’re fading, the Cubs might have their chance to pounce.
