Tigers Target Michael King to Strengthen Rotation Ahead of 2026

The Detroit Tigers are entering the 2026 season with an eye on solidifying their status as a playoff contender. After narrowly avoiding a postseason miss in 2025, the team knows that further improvements are necessary to compete consistently in the American League.

Tarik Skubal anchors the starting rotation, while a core of young, talented position players provides a foundation for success. However, Detroit recognizes that relying solely on internal growth will not be enough to advance deep into October.

According to reports, the Tigers are actively seeking to add starting pitching depth behind Skubal, along with reinforcements for the bullpen. Both moves align with the blueprint of a team aiming to compete for a World Series.

One potential addition is Michael King, a pitcher who once finished in the top 10 of Cy Young voting. His track record and ability to provide innings make him an attractive target, though signing him comes with both performance and financial considerations.

1. Michael King’s Track Record

Michael King enjoyed a standout season in 2024, finishing seventh in National League Cy Young voting while pitching for the San Diego Padres. Over 30 starts, he compiled a 2.95 ERA across 173.2 innings, establishing himself as one of the league’s most effective starters. His 2025 campaign was less dominant, as he pitched only 73.1 innings with a 3.44 ERA, limited by shoulder and knee injuries. Despite the down year, King appeared healthy toward the end of the season, making four starts in September and providing hope for a strong 2026 campaign. King’s durability has been a concern, but his upside is undeniable. When healthy, he offers strikeout ability, command, and the potential to stabilize a rotation that needs reliable innings behind Skubal. Detroit would be acquiring not just a veteran starter but also a pitcher with proven high-level performance, capable of anchoring the middle of the rotation and providing postseason value.

2. Contract Considerations and Financial Implications

King declined both his 2025 option with the Padres, worth $15 million, and the team’s qualifying offer of $22.025 million. This indicates he is seeking a contract that exceeds $22 million per season, with a preference for a long-term deal. For the Tigers, this represents a substantial financial commitment. Detroit will need to weigh the potential impact of such a contract against their payroll flexibility and long-term planning. In addition to the salary, the team must consider risk factors related to King’s injury history. Investing in a pitcher with prior shoulder and knee issues could affect both short-term performance and long-term value. Despite these concerns, the potential reward of adding a former Cy Young-caliber starter may outweigh the risks, particularly for a team positioned to contend in the AL Central and beyond.

3. Tigers’ 2026 Contention Strategy

The Tigers are entering 2026 with a roster capable of competing in the American League. Skubal’s presence at the top of the rotation and the emergence of young position players give the team a strong foundation. Adding a pitcher like King could transform the rotation from solid to formidable, addressing one of the most pressing needs for a deep postseason run. Strengthening the bullpen remains another priority, emphasizing Detroit’s commitment to overall pitching depth. The front office faces a strategic decision: invest heavily in an established starter or prioritize internal options and cost-controlled talent. Balancing immediate contention with financial prudence will shape the team’s offseason moves. Ultimately, Detroit’s willingness to commit to King and other potential acquisitions could determine whether the Tigers advance beyond their near-miss in 2025 and contend for a division title in 2026.