Cubs Eye Michael King to Bolster Rotation in 2026

The Chicago Cubs are entering the 2025-26 offseason with pitching upgrades at the top of their priority list. After a mixed 2025 campaign and ongoing injuries to key arms, the organization is looking to fortify both the starting rotation and bullpen ahead of next season.

One name generating interest is former San Diego Padres starter Michael King. King, 30, declined his mutual option earlier this month, making him a free agent and drawing attention from multiple clubs. Chicago appears to be among the teams actively monitoring his market value.

The Cubs’ front office, led by President of Baseball Operations Jed Hoyer and GM Carter Hawkins, has made it clear that internal improvements alone will not be sufficient. They are seeking high-upside, durable pitchers capable of stabilizing the staff and providing swing-and-miss potential.

King’s blend of experience, pitch intelligence, and work ethic has made him a standout candidate. The Cubs view him as a potential starter who can complement their current roster and help fill the void left by injured or departing arms.

1. Cubs’ Offseason Priorities

Chicago’s rotation needs have been highlighted by a few key developments. Shota Imanaga declined his player option and entered free agency, leaving a gap in the rotation. Meanwhile, Justin Steele continues to rehab from a season-ending elbow surgery, further emphasizing the need for reliable pitching options. The front office is focused on adding both depth and upside to the staff. They are targeting pitchers who can stabilize the rotation while also providing late-inning strikeout potential, allowing the bullpen to handle high-leverage situations more effectively. King fits this profile due to his intelligence on the mound, advanced pitch sequencing, and history as both a starter and reliever. The Cubs have historically valued these attributes in free-agent signings, as seen with acquisitions like Jameson Taillon and Matthew Boyd. By pursuing King, Chicago is signaling that it is willing to be proactive in the market rather than relying solely on internal options, including younger pitchers or minor-league promotions.

2. Michael King’s Appeal

King’s profile aligns closely with the Cubs’ desired pitching model. At 30, he combines experience with a professional approach that emphasizes command, sequencing, and situational awareness—traits that the Cubs have consistently prioritized in building their staff. As a former reliever-turned-starter, King brings versatility and adaptability, allowing him to slot into multiple roles depending on the team’s needs. His ability to miss bats and maintain composure in high-leverage situations makes him a potential anchor for the rotation. The Cubs are reportedly impressed with King’s work ethic and preparation, qualities that have helped other pitchers succeed in Chicago’s system. These intangible factors, coupled with his on-field performance, make him a desirable target as the team looks to improve its pitching depth. King’s acquisition would represent a strategic move to shore up the rotation while balancing long-term upside and immediate contributions, fitting neatly into Chicago’s broader offseason strategy.

3. Looking Ahead

As free agency unfolds, King remains a high-priority target for the Cubs, who are determined to enter the 2026 season with a more stable and effective pitching staff. His potential to slot into the rotation immediately addresses multiple needs created by injuries and departures. While other arms are also being considered, King’s combination of experience, intelligence, and upside makes him a compelling option. Chicago wants pitchers who can contribute right away while also offering long-term value, and King fits that dual role. Securing King would allow the Cubs to manage innings more strategically, giving younger pitchers opportunities to develop without being rushed into high-leverage roles. This balance is key to sustaining performance over a long season in the National League Central. Ultimately, landing King would signal a clear commitment from the Cubs to compete at a higher level, demonstrating that the organization is willing to invest in both proven talent and a rotation designed to contend in 2026.