Yankees Could Reunite with Star Pitcher Traded in Juan Soto Deal
When the New York Yankees shipped off Michael King, Jhony Brito, Randy Vásquez, Kyle Higashioka, and Drew Thorpe to the San Diego Padres in exchange for Juan Soto and Trent Grisham ahead of the 2024 season, it was clear the franchise was going all-in. The move paid off—Soto played a pivotal role in helping the Yankees reach their first World Series since 2009. But that success came at a high cost.
A Trade With Lasting Ripples
Blockbuster trades often feel like gambling big at the poker table. Soto was the Yankees’ ace in the hole—and he delivered—but the players they parted with, especially King, are proving tough to forget. King, once a reliable arm in New York, has emerged as a frontline starter in San Diego. After posting a solid 2.95 ERA last year, he’s stepped it up further in 2025 with a sparkling 2.42 ERA, making the Yankees’ sacrifice look steeper in hindsight.
Free Agency Looms
Now, the story could come full circle. While King remains under team control, he and the Padres share a $15 million mutual option for 2026—a figure far below what King could earn on the open market. Should he reach free agency following this season, the Yankees would have a chance to bring him back—no prospects required this time, just a financial commitment.
East Coast Connection
Geography could also play in the Yankees’ favor. As Jon Heyman noted, King has deep East Coast roots. The Rhode Island native has family ties in the area, and he and his wife previously lived in Manhattan. That comfort and familiarity with New York could give the Yankees an edge if he does hit the open market.
Baseball writer Bobby Milone echoed Heyman’s sentiment on social media, pointing out that King would be a strong candidate to return to the Bronx given his background and success there.
New Role, Bigger Impact
King, who turns 30 in May, has transformed from a versatile swingman into a dependable top-of-the-rotation arm. He’s pitching like someone entering the prime of his career, offering the kind of consistency the Yankees could desperately use. If the team decides to invest in bolstering the rotation again this winter, King could be the ideal fit—a familiar face who’s returned even better than before.
The Yankees may have dealt him once, but all signs suggest they could be preparing to welcome him back—this time, as a prized free agent.
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