Mike King
YEARTEAMGGSCGSHOWLSIPHitsERSOBBHRERA
2023Vigilantes3700035142.1201584123.19
2024Vigilantes2200004028.0382293327.07
2025Vigilantes992145064.26031235914.31
MLB Player Data
DateNewsComment
Jun 27 2025King (shoulder) played catch Wednesday, per MLB.com. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: This is a meaningful step forward for King, who has been out of action for over five weeks. The right-hander is dealing with a pinched thoracic nerve in his right shoulder, which has resulted in him seeking advice from specialists around the country to better understand how to progress. Imaging on King's shoulder found no structural damage, and he's said he expects to return to action this season, though he'll likely remain sidelined until sometime after the All-Star break.
Jun 20 2025King (shoulder) said Friday that he's "very confident" he'll pitch again this year, Marty Caswell of The Sporting Tribune reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King hasn't pitched in a game since May 18 and landed on the injured list May 25 due to what was initially deemed shoulder inflammation. The issue has since been clarified as a pinched nerve, and King explained Friday that his injury is to the long thoracic nerve, adding that injuries to that specific nerve are rarely encountered in baseball. The righty hurler mentioned that he and the Padres are in the "discovery phase" of understanding the injury and that he's seen several specialists across the country in an attempt to get answers. King also indicated that the next step in his recovery isn't clear at the moment, though he did say that he feels he's progressing and that he believes he's going to be able to return to the mound this season. For the time being, King is focusing on strengthening his injured shoulder and is doing only light throwing. Manager Mike Shildt implied Thursday that the team expects King to be out at least through the All-Star break.
Jun 19 2025Padres manager Mike Shildt implied Wednesday that King (shoulder) will remain on the 15-day injured list for the rest of the first half, AJ Cassavell of MLB.com reports. "I think that's pretty accurate," Shildt said, when asked if King would be out through the All-Star break. "I don't think we can begin to put a date on it. ... As we all know, the further away he is from it, the longer it takes to get back." ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Since being placed on the IL on May 25 due to a pinched nerve in his right shoulder area, King has shown only marginal improvement. Shildt said that at this stage, King remains limited to light throwing with plyometric balls and occasionally with baseballs, but he doesn't appear especially close to resuming mound work. A clear timeline for King's return from the IL likely won't emerge until he's further along in his throwing progression.
Jun 14 2025King (shoulder) remains stalled in his throwing progression, Sammy Levitt of 97.3 The Fan reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Per MLB.com, Padres manager Mike Shildt said last week that King was "in a holding pattern" as the club assessed options for his treatment and next steps. Shildt added Friday that "until [King] can pick up a baseball and throw it consistently, there's really no planning." The right-handed hurler has been out of action due to right shoulder inflammation since late May, and he doesn't seem to be close to a return.
Jun 9 2025King (shoulder) is still resting and hasn't yet been able to ramp up his throwing, Dennis Lin of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The team is prescribing rest as the main method of rehab for King, who was placed on the 15-day injured list May 25 due to a pinched nerve in his throwing shoulder. While he reportedly started to play light catch one week ago, manager Mike Shildt noted that the club is still looking into the best way forward for the right-hander. "We're just in a holding pattern to see what it is and the best way to treat it, if there is a better way to treat it outside of just the rest," said Shildt. It would seem that King is still weeks away from a return, though an official timetable has yet to be established.
Jun 2 2025King said Sunday that he has begun playing light catch and has shown incremental improvement in his recovery from a right shoulder injury, Dennis Lin of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King is dealing with a pinched nerve in his throwing shoulder and suggested that he expects to return from the injured list within weeks rather than months. However, Padres manager Mike Shildt indicated King is in the early stages of recovery, so a clear timeline on the right-hander's return may not be available until he's further along in the rehab process.
May 25 2025The Padres placed King on the 15-day injured list Sunday due to right shoulder inflammation. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander was scratched from his scheduled start Saturday due to shoulder stiffness, and he'll miss at least two more turns through the rotation due to the injury. King will be eligible to be reinstated June 6, though it's unclear if he'll be ready to return to the big-league mound at that point. Thanks to King's injury, Stephen Kolek should be able to stick in San Diego's rotation a bit longer, even with Yu Darvish (elbow) nearing a return from the IL.
May 24 2025King was scratched from his scheduled start Saturday against Atlanta due to right shoulder stiffness. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The team hasn't yet specified the severity of King's injury, so it's currently unknown how long it will be before the 29-year-old takes the mound again. The Padres will now turn to their bullpen to get them through Saturday's contest, and Sean Reynolds will get the ball for the first inning.
May 18 2025King (4-2) allowed four runs (three earned) on six hits and a walk while striking out eight over 5.1 innings to take the loss Sunday versus the Mariners. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King ran into trouble in the fourth inning, where he allowed three runs, and the Padres were unable to answer. He had not allowed more than three runs in any of his first nine starts this season. Despite his overall success -- 2.59 ERA, 1.02 WHIP, 64:17 K:BB through 55.2 innings, he's completed six innings in just two of his 10 outings so far. His next start is tentatively projected to be at Atlanta. He's already faced Atlanta once this season, allowing three runs over 2.2 innings in his first start of the campaign, but he's had no trouble bouncing back from that humble season debut.
May 12 2025King allowed three runs (two earned) on four hits and two walks while striking out eight over 5.2 innings in a no-decision versus the Angels on Monday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King came up an out short of a quality start, and he was also denied the win after Robert Suarez's meltdown in the ninth inning. This was just the third time all year King has given up three runs, and he's yet to give up more than that in any start. He's now at a 2.32 ERA, 0.99 WHIP and 56:16 K:BB over 50.1 innings across nine starts. The 29-year-old right-hander continues to be one of the best pitchers in the majors early in the campaign. He'll look to keep things rolling with a home start versus the Mariners this weekend.
May 6 2025King did not factor in the decision during Tuesday's loss to the Yankees. He allowed two runs on three hits and two walks over six innings while striking out two. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The only damage against King came in the fourth inning when he served up a solo shot to Aaron Judge and an RBI single to Jasson Dominguez. King tied season lows with just two punchouts and five whiffs. He completed six innings for the first time since firing a complete game against the Rockies on April 13 and was in line for the victory before San Diego's bullpen gave up 10 runs in the seventh inning. King is sporting an impressive 2.22 ERA with a 48:14 K:BB through eight starts. He's currently in line to face the Angels at home next week.
Apr 30 2025King (4-1) earned the win Wednesday over the Giants, allowing one run on three hits and a walk across 5.2 innings. He struck out six. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King blanked the Giants through five innings before Jung Hoo Lee drove in a run with a two-out infield single in the sixth. The 29-year-old King has yet to allow more than three runs in a start his year while holding opponents to two runs or fewer in each of his last four outings. King's ERA now sits at 2.09 on the year with a 1.01 WHIP and 46:12 K:BB across seven starts (38.2 innings). He'll look to keep rolling in his next outing, tentatively scheduled for next week against the Yankees.
Apr 19 2025King didn't factor in the decision Saturday against the Astros after giving up two runs on four hits and two walks over 5.2 innings. He struck out seven. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander cruised through five frames but ran into trouble in the sixth, when Christian Walker launched a two-out, two-run homer to tie the game 2-2 and end King's evening. The 29-year-old was unable to pick up his fourth consecutive victory, but it was still another productive performance on the road. After allowing three runs over 2.2 frames in his season debut, King has a 1.07 ERA, 0.87 WHIP and 28:6 K:BB in his past four starts.
Apr 13 2025King (3-0) threw a complete-game shutout in Sunday's 6-0 win over Colorado. He allowed two hits and one walk while striking out eight. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The San Diego right-hander absolutely dominated the Rockies to collect his first career complete-game shutout. King threw 110 total pitches and generated a stellar 17 whiffs. The 29-year-old has put himself in the early NL Cy Young conversation with his start, pitching to a 2.42 ERA, 1.09 WHIP and 24:8 K:BB across 22.1 innings. King is currently slated to make his next start at Houston this weekend.
Apr 7 2025King (2-0) earned the win over the Athletics on Monday, allowing three runs on eight hits and two walks while striking out two batters over 5.2 innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King wasn't at his sharpest -- he pitched only one 1-2-3 frame and yielded a season-high eight hits -- but he did just enough to emerge with the victory. The right-hander got 12 whiffs on his 101 pitches but managed a season-low two punchouts. Two of King's three starts this season have come against the A's, and he's been less than impressive in both games, allowing a combined six runs over 8.1 frames while recording a meager 5:6 K:BB. However, King was dominant with 11 punchouts over five scoreless frames against Cleveland in his other start. He's next scheduled to take the mound at home versus Colorado.
Apr 2 2025King (1-0) picked up the win Tuesday, allowing two hits and a walk over five scoreless innings in a 7-0 rout of the Guardians. He struck out 11. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Padres' pitching staff continues to roll, racking up its third shutout in the last four games, and King's performance was maybe the best one yet from the team's rotation. The right-hander generated 18 swinging strikes among his 88 pitches (56 total strikes) and didn't let a runner get past second base. King sports a 14:5 K:BB through his first 7.2 innings of 2025, and he'll look to remain dominant in his next start, which lines up to come on the road early next week against the A's.
Mar 27 2025King didn't factor into the decision Thursday against Atlanta, allowing three runs on four hits and four walks over 2.2 innings. He struck out three. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It was a shaky season debut for King, who needed 76 pitches to record just eight outs. He was ultimately forced out of the game in the third inning after giving up a two-run homer to Ozzie Albies. King will look to bounce back in his second outing, currently scheduled for next week against Cleveland. The 29-year-old right-hander was impressive last season, going 13-9 with a 2.95 ERA, 1.19 WHIP and 201 strikeouts.
Mar 22 2025King tossed five scoreless innings in a Cactus League start against the Cubs on Friday, allowing one hit and striking out four batters. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: In his final spring outing -- and his first since being named San Diego's Opening Day starter -- King was royal on the mound, allowing a single to the first batter he faced and then retiring 15 straight hitters. The righty had an up-and-down spring, but he concluded it on a superb note and finished the exhibition slate with a 3.95 ERA, 1.02 WHIP and 13:7 K:BB over 13.2 frames. King's next appearance is slated to take place next Thursday against Atlanta in the Padres' regular-season opener.
Mar 17 2025Manager Mike Shildt announced Monday that King will start the Padres' March 27 season opener versus Atlanta, Dennis Lin of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: In a surprising decision, King is getting the ball instead of Dylan Cease, but the two are essentially co-aces for the Padres. King broke out in 2024 in his first full campaign in the big leagues as a starting pitcher, collecting a 2.95 ERA and 201:63 K:BB over 173.2 innings during the regular season.
Mar 5 2025King tossed two scoreless and hitless innings in Wednesday's Cactus League contest against Colorado, allowing two walks while striking out three batters. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King didn't have great control in the outing -- only 17 of his 35 pitches were strikes -- but he didn't allow any hits and got six whiffs on the 11 swings against him. The right-hander is coming off a breakout 2024 campaign (his first with the Padres and his first as a full-time starter) during which he posted a 2.95 ERA, 1.19 WHIP and 201:63 K:BB over 173.2 innings. King and Dylan Cease are expected to work as San Diego's top two hurlers in 2025.
Jan 31 2025The Padres and King avoided arbitration Friday by agreeing to a one-year, $4 million contract with a $15 million mutual option for 2026, Kevin Acee of the San Diego Union-Tribune reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The buyout on the option is $3.75 million, with the possibility of it reaching $8 million if he hits all his incentives. The structure of the deal provides the Padres with some payroll wiggle room, which could lessen the need to trade either King or Dylan Cease. The right-handed King collected a 2.95 ERA and 201:63 K:BB over 173.2 regular-season innings with the Padres in 2024.
Oct 4 2024Manager Mike Shildt said Friday that Yu Darvish will start in Game 2 of the NLDS against the Dodgers and King will come in "soon thereafter," Jack Harris of the Los Angeles Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Padres will roll with Dylan Cease and Darvish for Games 1 and 2 of the NLDS before likely turning to King for Game 3. King started in Game 1 of the wild-card series against Atlanta on Tuesday, which he was credited for the win after pitching seven scoreless innings while allowing five hits and striking out 12 batters. The Padres' rotation suffered a setback with Joe Musgrove being ruled out for the NLDS due to a UCL injury in his right elbow, which will require Tommy John surgery during the offseason.
Sep 30 2024King will start Game 1 of the wild-card series against Atlanta on Tuesday, AJ Cassavell of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Padres will ride the hot hand and deploy King in their first postseason action, as he posted a 2.11 ERA and 1.25 WHIP with 40 strikeouts in his last seven starts of the regular season (38.1 innings). Joe Musgrove will get the call in Game 2 and Dylan Cease would draw the start in Game 3 if necessary.
Sep 25 2024King (13-9) got the win over the Dodgers on Tuesday, allowing one run (zero earned) on three hits and two walks while striking out three over five innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Dodgers made King work hard to get through five innings and he was done after needing 95 pitches. The lone run against him came off an error in the first inning. King then got out of a bases loaded jam in the second and then went nine up and nine down over the next three innings. King is on a miraculous run of allowing three runs or less in his last 14 starts and now sits at a 2.95 ERA, 1.19 WHIP and 201:63 K:BB in 173.2 innings. He's tentatively lined up to make a start this weekend against the Diamondbacks but it's also possible the Padres skip him in order to save him up for the postseason.
Sep 18 2024King did not factor into the decision in Tuesday's loss to the Astros, allowing two runs on five hits and a walk while striking out seven in seven innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Astros got to King with four hits and a pair of runs in the fourth but were otherwise held in check. King reached seven innings for the first time since July 21 and has allowed two earned runs or fewer in each of his last seven starts. For the year, King owns a 3.04 ERA, which ranks eighth among qualifiers and fourth in the National League. He'll look to continue rolling in a crucial matchup against the Dodgers next week.
Sep 12 2024King (12-9) took the loss against Seattle on Wednesday, allowing three runs (one earned) on four hits and two walks over five innings while striking out six. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King cruised through the first two innings before walking Miguel Rojas with one out in the third and then hitting Victor Robles with a pitch to put two runners on. The right-hander would then go on to surrender two RBI singles in the frame, leading to three runs coming across for Seattle -- though only one of those runs would count against King on account of a fielding error by Jake Cronenworth. King still managed to make it through five innings for the 12th time in his last 13 outings while generating 13 whiffs on the night. He now carries a 1.64 ERA through two starts in September, and King has also recorded at least six strikeouts in nine of his last 10 starts.
Sep 6 2024King (12-8) allowed one run on six hits and a walk while striking out eight over six innings to earn the win over the Giants on Friday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King rebounded from losing his last two starts to turning in a quality start. A Michael Conforto solo shot in the sixth inning was the lone run on his line. This was the 13th time in 28 outings (27 starts) where King was able to limit an opponent to one run or fewer. He's now at a 3.10 ERA, 1.21 WHIP and 185:58 K:BB through 156.2 innings. King is expected to draw a rematch with the Giants next week in San Francisco.
Aug 29 2024King (11-8) took the loss Thursday against the Cardinals, allowing two unearned runs on six hits and four walks over 4.1 innings. He struck out three. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: While both runs against King were unearned, the right-hander struggled with his command again Thursday, eventually needing 103 pitches to make it through just 4.1 innings. King's now issued 10 walks in his last three starts (15.1 innings) -- he's allowed nine runs in that span, though just three have been earned. Overall, King sports a 3.05 ERA with a 1.21 WHIP and 177:57 K:BB across 150.2 innings this season. The right-hander lines up for a home matchup with the Tigers in his next outing.
Aug 25 2024King (11-7) took the loss against the Mets on Saturday, allowing five runs (one earned) on three hits and three walks over five innings. He struck out seven. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King struggled with his command early, issuing three walks in the opening frame while also surrendering an RBI double to Pete Alonso. The right-hander then went 1-2-3 through the next two innings before stumbling again in the fourth, coughing up a grand slam to Fransisco LIndor as the Mets took a commanding 5-0 lead -- though none of the last four runs would count against him on account of a fielding error from Manny Machado. Despite his struggles, King would still make it through five innings for the 10th consecutive start and he now carries a 2-1 record in August to go along with a 2.45 ERA and 30:7 K:BB. He's also recorded six or more strikeouts in seven straight outings.
Aug 19 2024King (11-6) earned the win over Minnesota on Monday, allowing two runs on four hits and three walks while striking out six batters over six innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The three walks King issued were his most over his past nine starts, but he was still pretty efficient in getting through six frames on 85 pitches (53 of which were strikes). The right-hander induced 14 whiffs and finished with his fifth quality start across his past six outings. King has thrived in his first season as a full-time starter, registering a 3.18 ERA, 1.17 WHIP and 167:50 K:BB over 141.1 innings. He's been a huge addition to a Padres rotation that is currently without Yu Darvish (personal) and that was without Joe Musgrove for much of the campaign.
Aug 14 2024King (10-6) got the win over the Pirates on Tuesday after allowing seven hits over six scoreless innings. He struck out 10 without issuing a walk. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King posted his fourth outing of the season with at least 10 strikeouts and his fourth of at least six innings with zero earned runs allowed. He struck out the side in the second and fourth innings and allowed the Pirates to put runners into scoring position only twice. Since May 1, King is second in the majors among all starting pitchers with a 3.6 fWAR and has a 1.91 ERA over his last seven starts. He has just two starts since May 4 with fewer than five strikeouts and has been a massive addition to the San Diego rotation after coming over in the Juan Soto trade. For the year, King owns a 3.19 ERA, 1.17 WHIP and 161:47 K:BB in 135.1 innings. He lines up to face the Twins at home to begin next week.
Aug 7 2024King allowed four runs (three earned) on six hits and two walks while striking out seven batters over five innings in a no-decision against Pittsburgh on Wednesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King had his previous turn in the rotation skipped due to a left calf issue, but he was able to handle a normal workload with 94 pitches Wednesday. The right-hander began his outing poorly by giving up a pair of runs in the first frame and another (unearned) run in the second, but he yielded just one more run over his final three innings. King had a three-game quality-start streak snapped and gave up more than two runs for the first time in his past six outings, but he appeared to emerge from the appearance without any setbacks and should be fine to make his next start, which is projected to be a rematch with the Pirates next week.
Aug 5 2024The Padres list King (calf) as their scheduled starting pitcher for Wednesday's game in Pittsburgh. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King will return to the mound for the first time since July 27 after having his turn in the rotation skipped this past week while he contended with lingering left calf soreness, which stemmed from being struck by a comebacker. The right-hander was able to play catch Friday and Saturday without incident and looks like he'll be ready to start Wednesday after completing a bullpen session Monday. King has turned in quality starts in four of his last five outings while accruing a 1.76 ERA, 0.75 WHIP and 35:7 K:BB over 30.2 innings.
Aug 4 2024King (calf) played catch Friday and Saturday and is expected to be available to make a start in the Padres' series in Pittsburgh that runs Tuesday through Thursday, Jeff Sanders of The San Diego Union-Tribune reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King wasn't able to make his scheduled start Sunday against the Rockies due to lingering soreness in his left calf, but the right-hander looks as though he'll avoid missing a full turn through the rotation. San Diego has yet to name any of its starters for the three-game series with the Pirates, so King could be cleared to take the hill as soon as Tuesday, which would put him in line for a two-start week.
Aug 2 2024Padres manager Mike Shildt revealed Friday on 97.3 The Fan that King will not make his scheduled start Sunday versus the Rockies due to lingering left calf soreness as a result of being hit by a comebacker in his last outing. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It sounds like King just needs a couple extra days of rest and will be ready to go early next week, but the Padres are still discussing their options to fill in for Sunday's start. Carl Edwards has been stretched out as a starter since he signed a minor-league deal last month and last pitched Sunday, so he could be a possibility for a spot start. Edwards would need to be added to the 40-man roster, however.
Jul 27 2024King (9-6) earned the win against the Orioles on Saturday, allowing two runs on two hits and two walks with nine strikeouts over 6.1 innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King cruised through six innings and was pulled at 101 pitches after allowing two baserunners in seventh. Both inherited runners came around to score, but the righty logged his third straight quality start and has yielded two or fewer earned runs in nine of his past 10 outings. On the season, he owns a 3.26 ERA, 1.16 WHIP and 144:45 K:BB across 124.1 innings and lines up for a favorable home matchup with the Rockies next week.
Jul 21 2024King (8-6) earned the win against Cleveland on Sunday, allowing one run on two hits and a walk over seven innings while striking out six. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: For the second time this season, King threw at least six no-hit innings in a start. The 29-year-old was electric over the first six frames before running into some minor trouble in the seventh, giving up his only run. King joined Paul Skenes, Ronel Blanco and Max Fried as the only pitchers with multiple no-hit bids of at least six innings this season. King also became the first Padres pitcher with multiple no-hit bids in a season since Blake Snell in 2021. The veteran has a 3.28 ERA and 1.19 WHIP over 118 innings in his first season in San Diego.
Jul 10 2024King (7-6) took the loss against the Mariners on Wednesday, allowing two runs (one earned) on three hits and one walk with nine strikeouts over six innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King allowed three hits and a run in the fourth inning but was otherwise fantastic, generating 13 swinging strikes on 91 pitches. He was sitting about one mph above his season averages on most of his offerings and has now yielded one earned run in each of his past three starts. The 29-year-old will take a 3.41 ERA, 1.23 WHIP and 129:42 K:BB into the All-Star break.
Jul 4 2024King (7-5) picked up the win Thursday, allowing one run on four hits and two walks against the Rangers. He struck out five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King held the Rangers scoreless through five, then was removed after allowing two batters to reach base with one out in the sixth, eventually resulting in one earned run against. It's the sixth time in his last eight starts that King has allowed one earned run or fewer and the 10th such outing this season. Over his last eight outings, King has tossed 44 innings with a 2.45 ERA and 53 strikeouts. His next opportunity to toe the rubber is scheduled to come at home against the Mariners next week.
Jun 29 2024King (6-5) picked up the win Saturday, allowing one run on five hits and a walk over six innings in a 11-1 rout of the Red Sox. He struck out six. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander blanked Boston for five innings before serving up a solo shot to Jarren Duran, but San Diego had already compiled a 10-0 lead by that point. King produced his first quality start since June 2, and his seventh of the season, on 89 pitches (63 strikes). He'll take a 3.61 ERA, 1.27 WHIP and 115:39 K:BB through 99.2 innings into his next outing, which lines up to come at home next weekend against the Diamondbacks.
Jun 23 2024King (5-5) allowed five runs on nine hits and a walk while striking out eight over six innings to take the loss Sunday versus the Brewers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King had given up a total of five runs across his previous five outings, but he had just one win in that span despite a 34:9 K:BB over 26.2 innings. He wasn't as good Sunday, as the Brewers pieced together a two-out rally in the second inning that accounted for four of the five runs on his line. King is now at a 3.75 ERA with a 1.29 WHIP and 109:38 K:BB through 93.2 innings over 17 appearances (16 starts) this season. The right-hander is projected to make his next start at Boston.
Jun 18 2024King didn't factor into the decision Tuesday against the Phillies, allowing one run on six hits and three walks over 4.2 innings. He struck out six. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King had to contend with traffic for most of his outing Tuesday, though he'd manage to hold the Phillies to one run before departing in the fifth. The 29-year-old right-hander has pitched well of late, posting a 1.71 ERA with 34 strikeouts over his last five outings (26.2 innings). Overall, King's 5-4 with a 3.49 ERA, 1.27 WHIP and 101:37 K: BB across 87.2 innings this season. He's currently lined up for a home matchup with the Brewers this weekend in his next start.
Jun 13 2024King came away with a no-decision in Wednesday's 5-4 win over the A's, giving up two runs on four hits and two walks over five-plus innings. He struck out 12. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander set a season high in Ks and took a 2-0 lead into the sixth inning, but after allowing back-to-back singles to begin the frame, King left the mound and watched as Wandy Peralta let both inherited runners cross the plate. King hasn't been tagged for more than three runs in any of his last five starts, posting a 2.20 ERA, 0.94 WHIP and 34:8 K:BB in 28.2 innings over that stretch. He'll face a much tougher test in his next outing, on the road early next week in Philadelphia.
Jun 7 2024King (5-4) allowed four hits and one walk while striking out five over five scoreless innings to earn the win Friday over the Diamondbacks. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King wasn't all that efficient, needing 98 pitches (63 strikes) to get through five games, but that's the only knock on his performance. He's been excellent over his last three starts, allowing just two runs on 11 hits and four walks with 16 strikeouts over his last 17 innings. King is at a 3.58 ERA, 1.22 WHIP and 83:32 K:BB through 78 innings across 14 appearances (13 starts). The right-hander will look to keep it rolling in his next start, tentatively projected to come at home versus the Athletics.
Jun 2 2024King came away with a no-decision Sunday against the Royals, allowing one run on four hits and two walks while striking out four over seven innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King was sharp, not allowing an extra-base hit and turning in another quality start, his fifth over his past six contests. The 29-year-old snapped a three-game streak allowing a home run, something he has struggled with all season -- his 1.8 HR/9 ranks in the ninth percentile. On the whole, King has been solid this season, recording a 3.82 ERA and 1.23 WHIP with a 78:31 K:BB across 73 innings. The right-hander will look to build off this success in his next start, tentatively scheduled for this weekend against Arizona.
May 27 2024King allowed one run on three hits and one walk while striking out seven batters over five innings in a no-decision against Miami on Monday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King pitched very well in the outing, but San Diego wasn't able to put its second run on the board until the seventh frame, preventing him from picking up a second consecutive victory. The only run the right-hander allowed came on a third-inning homer by Jazz Chisholm. King has given up one or zero runs in three of his past five starts and has racked up a 34:8 K:BB across 30 innings over that span. He's tentatively slated to make his next start in Kansas City.
May 23 2024King (4-4) picked up the win Wednesday, giving up three runs on four hits and two walks over 6.2 innings in a 7-3 victory over the Reds. He struck out six. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander delivered his fifth quality start of the year, and his third in four May outings, on 92 pitches (62 strikes). King has had trouble maintaining consistency as he adjusts to being a full-time starting pitcher, but his 3.24 ERA, 1.08 WHIP and 27:7 K:BB through 25 innings this month is encouraging. He'll look to put together another solid start in his next trip to the mound, which lines up to come at home early next week against the Marlins.
May 15 2024King (3-4) took the loss against the Rockies on Wednesday, allowing six runs on eight hits and two walks while striking out seven betters over 5.1 innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King fell behind when he yielded three runs in the second inning, and San Diego's offense never put up a fight against Austin Gomber and a trio of Rockies relievers. King had been on a roll coming into Wednesday, putting up 13 scoreless frames over his previous two starts, but he's been very inconsistent this season, giving up at least four runs in four of his 10 appearances. Altogether, he's registered a mediocre 4.31 ERA and 1.36 WHIP along with a 61:26 K:BB through 54.1 innings.
May 10 2024King allowed two hits and three walks while striking out 11 over seven scoreless innings in a no-decision versus the Dodgers on Friday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King put four runners on base but also racked up eight strikeouts over his first three innings. He ended up missing out on the win after Yuki Matsui allowed the game-tying run in the eighth inning. King was unsteady late in April, but he's opened May with 13 scoreless innings. The right-hander is at a 3.67 ERA, 1.31 WHIP and 54:24 K:BB through 49 innings over nine appearances (eight starts) this season. King is penciled in for a more favorable home matchup versus the Rockies his next time out.
May 5 2024King (3-3) earned the win over the Diamondbacks on Saturday, allowing six hits over six shutout innings while striking out three. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King surrendered hits to three of the first four batters he faced in the contest but was able to work his way out of it before retiring the next 11 batters in succession. The right-hander didn't issue a walk for the first time this season, though his three strikeouts on the night also marked a season low. King had allowed at least four runs in back-to-back starts coming in and in three of his last four overall, taking three consecutive losses over that stretch. However, he's now posted three quality starts on the season and has gone at least five innings in five of his last six outings.
Apr 29 2024King (2-3) took the loss Sunday against the Phillies, allowing six runs on six hits and three walks while striking out six over 5.1 innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King struggled to keep the ball in the yard in this one. Bryson Stott got to him for a pair of two-run homers and J.T. Realmuto swatted one out against him in the sixth. His lack of command continues to haunt him, as he's now allowed 10 home runs in seven starts and has walked multiple batters in all but one appearance. The 29-year-old sports a 5.00 ERA, 1.47 WHIP and 40:21 K:BB in 36 innings and will line up for a road start against the Diamondbacks his next time out.
Apr 24 2024King (2-2) took the loss Tuesday against the Rockies, allowing six runs (four earned) on eight hits and three walks while striking out five in 3.2 innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King had given up just one run through three innings before things took a turn for the worst in the fourth. Two singles and an error loaded up the bases before King served up a grand slam to Brendan Rodgers to give the Rockies their first lead of the game. The damage didn't stop there, as King would then find himself with the bases loaded again in that same inning and walked in another run before finally being pulled. After flirting with a no-hitter his last time out, King had arguably his worst start of the year and has given mixed results through his first six outings. The 29-year-old now owns a 4.11 ERA, 1.43 WHIP and 34:18 K:BB in 30.2 innings. He'll look to get back in the win column versus the Phillies this weekend.
Apr 17 2024King (2-1) took the loss Wednesday against the Brewers but struck out 10 and allowed a run on two hits and two walks over 7.2 innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King held Milwaukee without a hit until the seventh inning, but the lone run of the game was charged to him after he exited in the eighth, as the bullpen allowed an inherited runner to score. The 28-year-old generated 17 swinging strikes on 109 pitches, and he now has two starts this season of at least seven frames. King has a difficult draw for his next turn through the rotation, as he currently lines up to face the Rockies at Coors Field early next week.
Apr 12 2024King did not factor into the decision Friday against the Dodgers, allowing seven runs (four earned) on six hits and two walks over five innings. He struck out four. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Dodgers offense had a field day against King on Friday, launching four home runs, a career-worst for the Padres right-hander. King has struggled against the formidable Los Angeles lineup, allowing seven earned runs over 8.1 innings against them this season. The 28-year-old looks to bounce back in his next start, scheduled to be against the Brewers at home.
Apr 6 2024King (1-0) earned the win against San Francisco on Saturday, allowing four hits and one walk while striking out four batters over seven scoreless innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King came into the contest having allowed a massive 10 walks over 7.1 innings, so it was promising to see him emerge from Saturday's outing having allowed just one free pass. The improved control unsurprisingly made a substantial positive impact on his results, as the right-hander picked up his second win (the first came in relief) and first quality start with seven impressive scoreless frames. King is working as a full-time starter for the first time this season, so it was uncertain coming into the campaign what fantasy managers could expect from him. Based on his first two starts, it appears that limiting walks could be a key to King finding success in his first campaign with the Padres.
Mar 31 2024King didn't factor into the decision Sunday against the Giants, tossing four innings and yielding two runs on two hits and seven walks. He struck out six. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King went through plenty of ups and downs in his first start of 2024, holding San Francisco to just two runs and two hits but walking a staggering seven batters. He's now allowed 10 walks in 7.1 innings this season and owns a 2.45 HR/9. While he'll be tough to trust moving forward, King could be worth a dart throw in daily formats as he's been an excellent source of strikeouts (13.5 K/9) thus far. King's tentatively lined up for a rematch with the Giants for his next start at pitcher-friendly Oracle Park.
Mar 21 2024King (1-0) gave up three runs on four hits and three walks while striking out five batters over 3.1 innings in a win over the Dodgers on Thursday in Game 2 of the Seoul Series. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King picked up the victory and racked up a healthy strikeout total in his first regular-season outing as a Padre, but the appearance wasn't smooth for the ex-Yankee. He made it through his first frame without giving up a run despite yielding a pair of hits, but Mookie Betts tagged the right-hander for a two-run homer in the fifth inning and drew a walk that led to another run on King's ledger in the seventh. Despite entering in the fourth frame, King ended up with an early-season starter's workload (75 pitches), and he's fully expected to hold down a rotation role moving forward. His work in relief Thursday was likely a one-off consequence of the Padres' next regular-season contest being one week away.
Mar 4 2024Through King's first two Cactus League appearances this spring, he's allowed no runs on two hits over five innings while posting a 4:0 K:BB. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King's first spring appearance came in relief, and he pitched two scoreless frames against Cleveland after entering in the third inning. He then started against San Francisco in his second outing and breezed through three frames, allowing just one hit while striking out three batters. King came over from the Yankees in December in the trade that sent Juan Soto to New York, and the right-handed hurler is set to start for the Padres from the outset of the campaign. His final three seasons with the Yankees were impressive, as he tallied a 2.88 ERA (3.13 FIP), 1.15 WHIP and 255:72 K:BB over 219 frames, but only 15 of his 105 appearances during that span came as a starter.
Jan 11 2024King signed a one-year, $3.15 million contract with the Padres on Thursday to avoid arbitration, Jon Morosi of MLB Network reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King was traded to San Diego in December as part of the deal that sent Juan Soto to the Yankees, and he's now officially under contract for the new season. King was moved from the bullpen into the Yankees' rotation toward the end of last season, allowing him to pitch a career-high 104.2 innings while still maintaining a 2.75 ERA. The 28-year-old righty will most likely remain a starter as he begins his tenure as a Padre.
Dec 6 2023The Yankees traded King, Drew Thorpe, Randy Vasquez, Jhony Brito and Kyle Higashioka to San Diego on Wednesday in exchange for Juan Soto and Trent Grisham, Jeff Passan of ESPN.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King has put together two consecutive great seasons, logging a 2.60 ERA and 1.10 WHIP across 155.2 innings since 2022. He's been used most often as a reliever throughout his career, though he was stretched out into a starting role during the second half of last year. Given the Padres' glaring need for rotation arms, it's likely King retains a starting job in 2024.
Oct 1 2023King (4-8) took the loss Sunday, allowing four runs on eight hits over four innings in a 5-2 loss against Kansas City. He struck out one. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King had a rough game to end the season, as he had not allowed more than one earned run in his last seven starts dating back to August 24. Solo home runs by Edward Olivares and Dairon Blanco in the fourth inning chased him from the outing after throwing 71 pitches. The right-hander wrapped the campaign with a 2.75 ERA and 1.15 WHIP with 127 strikeouts across 104.2 innings, working both as a starter and reliever. His success switching between either role may afford the team flexibility with his position in 2024.
Sep 26 2023King did not factor into the decision Tuesday, allowing one hit and five walks over six scoreless innings against the Blue Jays. He struck out five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Tuesday was King's seventh straight start, dating back to Aug. 24, after beginning 2023 in the bullpen. In those seven outings, he hasn't allowed more than a run in any start -- throwing 34.1 innings with a 1.04 ERA, 0.99 WHIP and 47:9 K:BB. However, King has thrown 100.2 innings this year, far exceeding his previous high of 63.1 in 2021, so there's a possibility he could be shut down. If he does make another start, it is slated for the last Yankees game of the season, on the road against the Royals.
Sep 21 2023King (4-7) took the loss against Toronto on Wednesday, allowing one run on five hits and no walks while striking out 13 batters over seven innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Though he was tagged with the loss due to a stagnant New York offense, King pitched arguably his best game as a major leaguer, tallying a career-best strikeout total and racking up 16 whiffs over seven frames. The only run he allowed came when Bo Bichette reached on a two-out infield single to knock in Kevin Kiermaier in the third inning. King has been a strikeout machine over his past three outings, posting a 30:2 K:BB along with a 1.62 ERA and 1.02 WHIP over 16.2 innings. It would be an understatement to say that his late-season transition to the rotation has gone well, and King could be setting himself up for a full-time role as a starter in 2024 with his recent outstanding run.
Sep 14 2023King (4-6) took the loss in Game 1 of Thursday's doubleheader against Boston, allowing one run on six hits and one walk while striking out eight batters over 4.2 innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Yankees pitching coach Matt Blake said earlier in the day that King had built up to 85-to-90 pitches, and the right-hander was right on target with 87 pitches (56 strikes). He appeared to be getting stronger as the game wore on, striking out the final three batters he faced and not allowing a run after the first frame, which bodes well for his ability to continue going deeper into contests. Nonetheless, King got no run support from the Yankees offense Thursday and ended up with his first loss since Aug. 12. It looks like he'll be a fixture in the rotation moving forward, and he's shined in that role of late, allowing just three earned runs while posting a 29:4 K:BB over his past 21.1 innings.
Sep 10 2023King did not factor into the decision Saturday, allowing two runs (one earned) on four hits and one walk over five innings against the Brewers while striking out nine. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King looked sharp against the Brewers, striking out four of the first seven batters he faced to open the contest. Two runs came across for Milwaukee in the top of the fourth, though only one was charged to King following a throwing error by DJ LeMahieu. The right-hander has now gone five innings in back-to-back starts, allowing a total of two earned runs over that stretch while posting a 13:1 K:BB.
Sep 3 2023King (4-5) allowed a run on five hits and struck out four without walking a batter over five innings to earn the win over the Astros on Sunday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King enjoyed his longest outing of the season, getting through five frames on an economical 69 pitches (44 strikes). That's a further build-up from the 61 pitches he threw over four scoreless innings Tuesday versus Detroit. The right-hander is now at a 2.88 ERA, 1.14 WHIP and 91:25 K:BB through 78 innings over 44 appearances (four starts) this year. He appears to be set to remain a starter for the rest of 2023, but he'll likely still have to be efficient to have much of a chance to get wins. King is projected for a home outing versus Milwaukee in his next trip to the mound.
Aug 30 2023King is lined up to receive another start Sunday at Houston, Chris Kirschner of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King built his pitch count up to 61 in his most recent start Tuesday versus the Tigers while striking out five batters over four scoreless innings. Jhony Brito will likely be available in bulk relief Sunday against the Astros, but King is perhaps making a case to be treated as more of a traditional starter rather than just an opening pitcher. The 28-year-old right-hander boasts an overall 2.96 ERA, 1.15 WHIP and 87:25 K:BB in 73 innings this season for the Yankees.
Aug 28 2023King is slated to start Tuesday's game against the Tigers at Comerica Park, Evan Woodbery of MLive.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: While making his second "start" of the season his last time out Thursday versus the Nationals, King operated as more of an opener in front of Jhony Brito. King covered 2.2 innings, allowing one unearned run on one hit and two walks while striking out three. The Yankees could have King work a little deeper into his start Tuesday, though the right-hander is still unlikely to hit the five innings he would need to qualify for a win. Unless Brito is needed in relief in Monday's series opener, he could once again following King in Tuesday's contest.
Aug 25 2023King did not factor into the decision Thursday, allowing one unearned run on one hit and two walks over 2.2 innings against the Nationals while striking out three. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King pitched well over the first two innings but found himself in a jam in the third after walking two of the first four batters he faced in the frame. One unearned run came home following a fielding error by Anthony Volpe and the right-hander was then relieved by Keynan Middleton as New York went with a bullpen day. The Yankees have now lost the last four games in which King has appeared, though he's held his own so far in August with a 3.00 ERA and 20:5 K:BB.
Aug 23 2023King will serve as the Yankees' opener Thursday against Washington, Gary Phillips of the New York Daily News reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King allowed two runs in two innings during his last outing as an opener on Aug. 12 against Miami. He'll presumably stay in Thursday's contest for a similar amount of time before handing things over to Gerrit Cole for bulk innings.
Aug 13 2023King (3-5) took the loss Saturday, allowing two runs on four hits over two innings against the Marlins. He struck out three. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King got off to a rough start, giving up a leadoff single to Jazz Chisholm on the very first pitch of the game before surrendering a two-run blast to Luis Arraez just two batters later. The right-hander rebounded with a 1-2-3 inning in the second before being relieved Jhony Brito to open the third, but the former would still go on to be charged with his fifth loss of the season. King had not allowed a run over his last seven appearances coming in (spanning eight innings), while the four hits he surrendered Saturday matched his season high.
Aug 12 2023King is listed as the the Yankees' starting pitcher for Saturday's game against Miami, Chris Kirschner of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Like many major-league relievers, King was a starter in the minors and at the beginning of his MLB career, so being the first pitcher on the mound won't be an entirely new experience. He'll likely be more of an opener than a true starter Saturday, though he did record eight outs in his most recent relief appearance Tuesday against the White Sox and has thrown at least two full innings in 14 of his 38 outings this season. Jhony Brito was recalled from Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre on Friday and could handle the bulk role behind King, though the Yankees have yet to lay out their plans.
Jul 9 2023King picked up the save Saturday against the Cubs. striking out one over 1.2 scoreless innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King took over for Gerrit Cole with one out in the top of the eighth and needed just five pitches to retire the next two batters and end the inning. He would later hit Christopher Morel with a pitch in the ninth, but the right-hander was solid outside of that one hiccup en route to earning his sixth save of the season. King has now converted three of his last four save attempts and lowered his season ERA to 2.77 with Saturday's scoreless outing.
Jul 1 2023King (2-4) allowed a hit and struck out two without walking a batter over 3.1 innings of relief to earn the win in Game 2 of Saturday's doubleheader versus the Cardinals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King covered the most innings of the six pitchers the Yankees deployed in a bullpen game. He's no stranger to longer relief outings -- he's gone past an inning in 20 of his 27 appearances on the year, though Saturday's effort was his longest of the season. King now has a 2.84 ERA, 1.13 WHIP and 48:14 K:BB through 44.1 innings overall while adding five saves and three holds. He remains in the mix for some high-leverage work, but his ability to go multiple innings makes him a versatile part of the New York bullpen.
Jun 25 2023King picked up the save in Sunday's 5-3 victory over the Rangers, allowing one hit over a scoreless inning. He struck out two and didn't record a walk. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: With Clay Holmes and Wandy Peralta presumably unavailable after working the previous day, Ron Marinaccio got the call in the eighth with New York trailing and King earned a save opportunity after the Yankees took the lead in the bottom of the eighth. It was King's fifth save of the year but his first save opportunity since June 13. It had been a struggle for King since then, as he allowed five runs over his previous three appearances. Despite his scoreless inning Sunday, King likely won't get many more save chances moving forward as long as Holmes, Peralta and Marinaccio are all healthy.
Jun 13 2023King picked up the save Tuesday against the Mets, striking out one in a perfect ninth inning. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King sealed a 7-6 victory, setting the Mets down in order in the ninth inning after Clay Holmes pitched the eighth. It's King's first save since May 15. He improved to 4-for-6 in save chances with a 2.19 ERA, 1.08 WHIP and 41:12 K:BB across 37 innings this season. King should continue to pitch in high-leverage spots for the Yankees, though Holmes is still likely the preferred ninth-inning option.
May 16 2023King earned a save with 1.1 perfect innings against Toronto on Monday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After the Blue Jays rallied for four runs in the bottom of eighth, King was summoned to put out the fire with two outs and a runner on second. He induced a groundout to end the frame, then stayed around for the ninth, during which he retired the side on 10 pitches. The successful outing earned King his third save, all of which have required him to get more than three outs. While it may be inaccurate to name King the Yankees' primary closer, he is as much in the mix as any of the team's relievers -- since April 27, he's notched three saves, Wandy Peralta has picked up two, two others have one apiece and Clay Holmes has zero.
May 3 2023King will soon be available to pitch more frequently and in shorter bursts, Andy Martino of SNY.tv reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Yankees have been careful with King's usage so far this season after a fractured pitching elbow ended his 2022 campaign. However, his arm has bounced back well and he has pitched his way into being one of manager Aaron Boone's most trusted relievers. King picked up a 1.2-inning save Tuesday versus the Guardians and, with Clay Holmes struggling, could be asked to shoulder more of the closing load.
Apr 28 2023King picked up the save in Thursday's 4-2 win over Texas. He allowed one walk while striking out two over 2.1 scoreless innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King registered his first save of the season without giving up a hit. The right-hander has posted a 1.72 ERA through 15.2 innings pitched this year, and he will continue to play a significant role in the Yankees' bullpen if he keeps performing at this level.
Apr 5 2023King's velocity was down in Tuesday's loss to Philadelphia, Bryan Hoch of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King allowed four hits over 1.1 innings in the outing, with the first two knocks driving in a pair of runs that were charged to Domingo German. King's fastball topped out at 95.2 mph in the contest, about a tick below his average velocity on the pitch last season. Overall, King's average four-seamer is clocking in at 94.1 mph this season as opposed to 96.4 mph in 2022. While the right-hander said he believes the reduced velocity to be mechanical, manager Aaron Boone suggested that the reliever may be in the midst of a "dead-arm period." It's not yet certain if the issue will affect King's availability moving forward.
Feb 20 2023King (elbow) threw his first live batting practice session of the spring Saturday and doesn't appear to have any limitations during camp, Randy Miller of The Newark Star-Ledger reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King was sidelined for the final two and a half months of the 2022 season after fracturing his right elbow and undergoing surgery, but since he was fortunate enough to avoid any UCL damage, he was able to make a swifter recovery than if he would have required a Tommy John procedure. The Yankees could still opt to use him conservatively in spring training, but assuming he escapes the Grapefruit League slate unscathed, he should settle back in as a multi-inning weapon out of the bullpen. He dazzled over his 51 frames with the big club last season, submitting a 2.29 ERA, 1.00 WHIP and 66:16 K:BB while capturing six wins, one save and 16 holds.
Feb 15 2023King (elbow) said Wednesday that he's thrown about 10 times from a mound over the past six weeks, Bryan Hoch of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King is not only throwing off the mound, but he's using all of his pitches, and has already faced live hitters. The right-hander believes he'll be ready for the start of the season after missing the final two months of 2022 because of a fractured elbow that required surgery. Assuming he continues to make steady progress as spring training unfolds, King should be a strong late-inning option for the Yankees during the 2023 campaign.
Jan 25 2023King (elbow) expects to be ready for the start of the season, Brendan Kuty of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King missed the final two-plus months of the 2022 season after fracturing his right elbow. The 27-year-old was excellent before the injury with a 2.29 ERA over 51 innings and a 66:16 K:BB ratio over 34 appearances. Assuming good health, King should be a bridge to Clay Holmes in the late innings.
Jan 14 2023King (elbow) signed a one-year deal with the Yankees on Friday, avoiding arbitration. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King got off to an excellent start last season, posting a 2.29 ERA in 51 innings of relief while striking out 33.2 percent of opposing batters. He hit the injured list with a fractured elbow shortly after the All-Star break and wound up missing the rest of the year, though he was able to avoid Tommy John surgery and could be ready for the start of next season.
Sep 29 2022King (elbow) learned Thursday that he doesn't need Tommy John surgery, Gary Phillips of SI.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King underwent surgery to repair a fractured right elbow in late July and had since been waiting for word on whether he'd need the Tommy John procedure. A recent MRI revealed that his UCL is in fact intact, meaning that the additional surgery is not needed. King indicated that he plans to resume throwing as soon as late October. That puts him in line to have a relatively normal offseason and to be ready to return to the mound by spring training next year.
Jul 27 2022King (elbow) underwent surgery Wednesday, Lindsey Adler of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King has been ruled out for the season due to a fractured right elbow, and his procedure addressed that issue. The status of his ligament isn't yet clear, and the right-hander will be evaluated in 8-10 weeks to determine whether he'll require Tommy John surgery. If King doesn't need to undergo the procedure, the Yankees hope to have him back in time for spring training 2023.
Jul 26 2022King isn't believed to be dealing with any major UCL damage to his fractured right elbow, making it likely that he'll avoid Tommy John surgery, Jon Heyman of the New York Post reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King is still expected to require a procedure to address the fracture, but a recovery timeline for that surgery would put him on track to be available to pitch at some point in 2023, if not the start of spring training. The 27-year-old, who is expected to go under the knife later this week or in early August, concludes the 2022 campaign with a 2.29 ERA, 1.00 WHIP and 66:16 K:BB in 51 innings to go with one save and 16 holds.
Jul 25 2022King will undergo surgery on his fractured right elbow, and it's possible that he may also need Tommy John surgery, Bryan Hoch of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It was a foregone conclusion that King would need surgery for the fracture when the diagnosis was revealed Friday, but the possibility of Tommy John surgery could make the injury even more devastating for the right-handed hurler and the organization. Should the issue be limited to the fracture, King could be back in time for spring training next season, but Tommy John would knock him out for a vast majority (if not all) of 2023. The Yankees may have a tough time replacing him in the bullpen, as he had posted a 2.29 ERA, 1.00 WHIP and 66:16 K:BB over 51 innings while picking up 16 holds, one save and three wins prior to the injury.
Jul 23 2022King was placed on the 60-day injured list Saturday with a fractured right elbow. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: We already knew King was done for the season after he suffered a fractured elbow Friday. This was a breakout year for the righty reliever, as he registered a 2.29 ERA, 1.00 WHIP and 66 strikeouts in 51 innings of work. He also notched six wins and one save.
Jul 22 2022King suffered a fracture in his right elbow Friday against the Orioles, Joel Sherman of the New York Post reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Sherman also reports that King is expected to miss the rest of the season, though further testing will confirm that. King was an excellent reliever for the Yankees while maintaining a 2.29 ERA and a 66:16 K:BB across 51 innings on the campaign.
Jul 16 2022King (6-2) was tagged with the loss in extra innings against Boston on Friday, giving up an unearned run without allowing a hit or a walk in one inning. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King didn't allow any baserunners, but a two-out wild pitch allowed Xander Bogaerts -- who opened the inning at second base as the automatic runner and moved over to third on a flyout -- to score the winning run. The loss does little to mar what has been a standout season for the righty reliever -- he's posted a 2.19 ERA, 0.95 WHIP and 64:15 K:BB over 49.1 innings while notching 15 holds, six wins and a save. Since the start of June, King has allowed only two earned runs across 20.1 frames.
Jul 10 2022King earned a hold over the Red Sox on Saturday, allowing one run on one hit while striking out two batters over two innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King came on with two outs in the sixth inning, and he got Trevor Story to fly out with a pair of runners on base. The right-handed reliever then pitched a clean seventh, but he gave up a two-out double to J.D. Martinez in the eighth, and that hit was cashed in for a run after he departed. King was nonetheless credited for a hold -- his eighth since the start of June. Over 14 games during that stretch, he's allowed just two runs over 17.1 innings while recording a 24:9 K:BB.
Jun 26 2022King (5-1) allowed no hits and a walk while striking out one in a scoreless 10th inning to earn the win over the Astros on Sunday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King gave up a run during Saturday's relief appearance against Houston, but he bounced back by holding the Astros scoreless in the top of the 10th inning to pick up his fifth win of the season in Sunday's series finale. The right-hander has held the opposition scoreless in nine of 10 appearances since the start of June and has posted a 0.79 ERA and 0.71 WHIP in 11.1 innings while picking up three wins and five holds during that time.
Jun 17 2022King (4-1) earned the win over the Rays on Thursday, allowing one walk while striking out two batters over one scoreless inning. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King entered in the ninth inning with the game tied 1-1. He kept Tampa Bay at bay and was credited with the win when Anthony Rizzo hit a walkoff homer in the bottom of the frame. King endured a rough three-game stretch near the end of May, but he has bounced back with 6.1 scoreless innings and a 10:3 K:BB over six appearances in June. He's notched two wins and three holds in that span.
Jun 15 2022King earned a hold against Tampa Bay on Tuesday, pitching 1.1 scoreless innings during which he allowed one walk and struck out two batters. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King's control was a bit shaky -- half of his 24 pitches were balls -- but he racked up seven swinging strikes and didn't allow any hits. The right-hander preserved a narrow lead during his time on the mound to pick up his team-leading ninth hold. King has thrived in a variety of roles for New York this season, adding three wins and a save to his holds tally and posting a 2.62 ERA, 0.96 WHIP and 46:8 K:BB across 34.1 innings.
Jun 6 2022King (3-1) struck out the side in a perfect inning to earn the win over Detroit on Sunday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The game went into an extra inning, and King was tasked with the 10th frame. The right-hander excelled, striking out all three batters he faced on 11 pitches. He was rewarded with his third win as a result of New York scoring in the bottom of the inning. King has posted a 2.90 ERA, 1.00 WHIP and 42:6 K:BB over 31 innings while notching seven holds and one save on the campaign.
Jun 4 2022King pitched a perfect eighth inning while striking out one to pick up his seventh hold of the year in a 3-0 win over the Tigers on Saturday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: With multiple injuries in the Yankees bullpen, King appears to be the go-to setup man for closer Clay Holmes. King boasts an excellent 2.08 xFIP and Yankees manager Aaron Boone has shown confidence using him in high-leverage situations. If Holmes were to pitch on consecutive days while Aroldis Chapman (Achilles) and Jonathan Loaisiga (shoulder) remain on the injured list, King could be in line to pick up the occasional save.
May 18 2022King earned a hold against the Orioles on Tuesday, pitching three perfect innings during which he struck out six batters. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Starter Jameson Taillon was lifted after giving up a leadoff double in the sixth inning, and King promptly snuffed out the threat by striking out the next three batters. The righty reliever went two more frames, setting down the side in order in each and collecting three more punchouts. King has been a force as a full-time reliever this season, recording a 1.40 ERA, 0.82 WHIP and 37:4 K:BB over 25.2 innings.
May 9 2022King (2-1) was tagged with a blown save and a loss in Game 2 of Sunday's doubleheader against the Rangers, giving up two runs on two hits and one walk over 1.1 innings. He struck out three. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King has been dominant this season, but he showed that he was mortal with a less-than-sharp effort Sunday. The right-hander entered with a runner on second base and the Yankees holding a one-run lead in the seventh inning and walked the first hitter he faced. After getting the next two batters out, King threw a wild pitch that allowed the tying run to score, then served up a two-run homer to Brad Miller. This was only the second time in nine appearances this season that he has been charged with an earned run, and his ERA still sits at a tidy 1.42 across 19 innings.
May 2 2022King earned a hold against Kansas City on Sunday, pitching 1.2 perfect innings during which he struck out two batters. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King came in with runners on first and second and one out with the Yankees leading by a run in the seventh inning and snuffed out the threat by getting Salvador Perez to ground into a double play. He continued his strong work in the eighth, collecting a pair of strikeouts and retiring the side in order. The superb outing was a continuation of the right-hander's dominant campaign thus far. King has allowed only one earned run on the season, giving him a minuscule 0.61 ERA through 14.2 innings. He has also picked up two wins, a save and three holds while posting a 22:3 K:BB.
Apr 23 2022King earned a hold against Cleveland on Friday, completing three scoreless innings during which he allowed one hit and struck out eight. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King dominated Guardians batters over his three frames, inducing 12 swinging strikes and fanning eight of the 10 batters he faced -- including the final seven. The right-hander has pitched at least two innings in all but one of his appearances this season and has registered two holds along with one save. King has posted a 0.84 ERA, 1.03 WHIP and 18:2 K:BB across 10.2 innings on the campaign.
Apr 14 2022King recorded his first save of the season, pitching one inning and striking out one in a 3-0 win Thursday over Toronto. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King entered the game with no outs and the bases loaded, following three consecutive walks by Aroldis Chapman. The 26-year-old needed just five pitches to get out of the jam as he struck out George Springer and Bo Bichette lined into a game-ending double-play. It was the first career save for King. He is fairly far down the depth chart in the Yankees bullpen and is unlikely to get many more save opportunities anytime soon.
Apr 8 2022King (1-0) allowed an unearned run on a hit and a walk while striking out three in two innings to earn the win Friday against the Red Sox. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King entered Friday's matchup in the 10th inning and allowed the runner on second base to come across, but he remained in the game after the Yankees tied it up in the bottom half of the inning. He struck out two of the three batters he faced in the top of the 11th and was rewarded with his fourth career win. In spite of Friday's outing, the 26-year-old is expected to serve mainly in low-leverage situations in 2022.
Apr 2 2022Yankees manager Aaron Boone indicated Thursday that King will make the Opening Day roster, Bryan Hoch of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King missed much of last season with a finger injury but posted respectable numbers when he did pitch, compiling a 3.55 ERA, 1.28 WHIP and 62:24 K:BB over 63.1 innings. He started in six of his 22 big-league outings last season but is expected to work in a middle-relief role in 2022. King has made three appearances in Grapefruit League play, allowing five runs and yielding three homers over seven frames.
Sep 29 2021King (1-4) earned the win over Toronto on Tuesday, pitching 2.2 innings and allowing one run on two hits and one walk while striking out one. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Yankees starter Jameson Taillon aggravated his right ankle injury in the third frame, resulting in an early entrance for King. The right-handed reliever allowed a run in the fourth inning but otherwise kept the Blue Jays off the scoreboard, and he was ultimately credited with the win. Since returning from the 60-day IL on Sept. 10, King has allowed only two runs while posting a 13:2 K:BB across 13.1 innings.
Sep 11 2021King pitched three innings against the Mets on Friday, allowing two runs (one earned) on two hits and no walks while striking out two. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Yankees starter Jordan Montgomery lasted only 3.1 frames in the contest, and the recently activated King was able to give the team some length by throwing 45 pitches over three innings. He was mostly effective, though the right-hander struggled to finish off his final frame, surrendering a single and hitting consecutive Mets batters to loaded the bases before a fielder's choice and error resulted in a pair of runs. Despite the rocky finish, King's return was encouraging given that he hadn't previously pitched in a big-league game since July 3. He'll likely need a few days to recover given his large workload Friday.
Sep 10 2021King (finger) was reinstated from the 60-day injured list prior to Friday's game against the Mets. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King has been out since early July with a right middle finger contusion. He began a throwing program in late August and later began a rehab assignment at Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre on Aug. 31. The right-hander worked up to 41 pitches while striking out six in his latest three-inning outing with the RailRiders on Tuesday, so he should be ready to work in long relief beginning Friday. To make room for him on the 40-man roster, Sal Romano was designated for assignment.
Sep 8 2021King (finger) struck out six over three innings in his rehab appearance Tuesday with Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. He gave up one earned run on two hits and no walks in the 41-pitch outing. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King's appearance was his third in the minors since the Yankees shut him down shortly before the All-Star break with a right middle finger contusion. Before landing on the IL, King had been splitting time between starting and relief duty. With the Yankees having since added reinforcements to the rotation in the form of Corey Kluber, Nestor Cortes and Luis Gil since the right-hander has been on the shelf, King is likely to return in a multi-inning role out of the bullpen. According to Max Goodman of SI.com, Yankees manager Aaron Boone said King could be activated from the 60-day injured list as soon as the end of the week.
Aug 31 2021King (finger) began a rehab assignment with Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre on Tuesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King has been out since early July with a bruised finger. He'll likely need a handful of rehab appearances given the length of his absence.
Aug 27 2021King (finger) threw live batting practice Friday, Brendan Kuty of The Newark Star-Ledger reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King began his throwing program Tuesday, and manager Aaron Boone said Friday that the right-hander might start a rehab assignment soon. The 27-year-old will presumably require several rehab appearances since he's been on the injured list since early July, but he's made significant progress in his recovery recently.
Aug 24 2021King (finger) started a throwing program Tuesday, Lindsey Adler of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King has been sidelined since early July with a bruised right middle finger, and starting a throwing program is the first step toward potentially returning from the injured list. The 26-year-old will be eligible to return from the 60-day IL in early September, but he figures to require additional time to continue his rehab given he's only just resumed throwing.
Jul 27 2021King (hand) was transferred to the 60-day injured list Tuesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Per Lindsey Adler of The Athletic, manager Aaron Boone said that King saw a hand specialist Tuesday and he will continue to not throw for about another week. The right-hander's move to the 60-day IL means he won't be able to be activated until at least Sept. 3, though it's not yet clear if his arm will be fully ready at that point.
Jul 24 2021Yankees manager Aaron Boone said Friday that King (finger) remains "a ways away" from returning from the injured list, Max Goodman of SI.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King suffered a right middle finger contusion during weight training in early July. X-rays came back negative, per MLB.com, but the right-hander has been unable to play catch or do any throwing while he recovers. As such, he'll need some time to ramp up completely once the finger heals enough to allow him to pitch again.
Jul 18 2021Yankees manager Aaron Boone said Sunday that King (finger) will remain on a "no-throw" program for about 5-to-7 more days, Bryan Hoch of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After landing on the 10-day injured list July 8 with a right middle finger contusion, King was hoping that he would be ready to go coming out of the All-Star break, but the injured digit has apparently bothered him more than he anticipated. Due to an off day Monday, the Yankees won't require a replacement in the rotation for King until July 24 in Boston. King posted a 4.44 ERA, 1.44 WHIP and 27:11 K:BB in 26.1 innings over his six starts since he joined the rotation in early June.
Jul 16 2021King (finger) has played catch without discomfort and hopes to be activated during this weekend's series versus Boston, Randy Miller of NJ Advance Media reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King injured his right middle finger while lifting weights July 5 and was subsequently placed on the 10-day injured list. He recently indicated that he is doing better, explaining, "It's good now. It felt good throwing. It was pretty bad the first day. The swelling and pain have gone down considerably. I'll throw two of the three days (during the All-Star break) and probably throw a bullpen Thursday or Friday and see where I am." King has posted a 3.72 ERA, 1.39 WHIP and 47:21 K:BB across 48.1 innings this season.
Jul 8 2021King was placed on the 10-day injured list with a right middle finger contusion Thursday, retroactive to July 5. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King was a candidate to start Friday's game against the Astros, but he'll now be sidelined through the All-Star break while he recovers. It's not yet clear how much time the right-hander will require on the injured list, but he'll be eligible to return as soon as July 15, which is the Yankees' first game back from the break. Nestor Cortes could be an option to fill in as a starter if needed, while Tyler Wade was recalled from Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre in a corresponding move.
Jun 28 2021King (0-4) allowed three runs (two earned) on six hits and two walks over 4.1 innings Monday, striking out four and taking a loss against the Angels. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King got into trouble right from the start Monday, serving up a solo shot to Shohei Ohtani and an RBI double to Jared Walsh in the first inning. He was later tagged with an unearned run after he was pulled in the fifth inning. The 26-year-old righty hasn't finished five innings in any of his last four outings and he's still searching for his first win of the season. King owns a 4.06 ERA through 44.1 innings. He's lined up to face the Mets at home this weekend.
Jun 24 2021King did not factor in the decision against Kansas City on Wednesday, pitching 4.2 innings and allowing two runs on three hits and three walks while striking out five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander fell behind early, surrendering a two-run homer to Ryan O'Hearn in the first inning. King bounced back over the following three frames, but he was pulled after loading the bases on a pair of walks (one intentional) and a hit-by-pitch in the fifth. He has completed five innings only once in five starts since joining the starting rotation May 30, compiling a 5.75 ERA, 1.52 WHIP and 16:10 K:BB over 20.1 innings during that span. His next appearance is tentatively scheduled for Monday at home against the Angels.
Jun 17 2021King did not factor into the decision during Thursday's win over the Blue Jays. He allowed three runs on five hits and a pair of walks while striking out one across 4.1 innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King was able to keep the ball in the park, but he couldn't go the distance, throwing 60 pitches -- 41 for strikes -- and leaving the game with a runner on first and one out in the fifth. In four starts since filling in for Corey Kluber in the rotation, King has collected two losses and 13 runs (11 earned) over 15.2 innings. The right-hander lines up to take his next turn at home Wednesday against Kansas City.
Jun 10 2021King didn't factor into the decision Thursday against the Twins after allowing two runs on four hits and three walks across 3.2 innings, He struck out three. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King has shifted between the bullpen and the rotation this season and while his recent outings have been underwhelming, he still owns a 3.77 ERA across 10 appearances (three starts) in 2021. The right-hander has a good shot at staying in the rotation for the upcoming few weeks with Corey Kluber (shoulder) sidelined through the All-Star break, but he'll need to show more in his upcoming outings to remain in the rotation. King should be scheduled to start next week against the Blue Jays on the road.
Jun 4 2021King (0-3) allowed four runs on six hits and no walks while striking out five in 5.1 innings to take the loss against the Red Sox on Friday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King made his second consecutive start Friday and retired two of the first three batters he faced, but he gave up a three-run homer in the top of the first inning to put him in line for his third loss of the season. The right-hander has now posted a 3.62 ERA and 1.28 WHIP in 27.1 innings across nine appearances (two starts) this year. He tentatively lines up to make his next start on the road against Minnesota on Thursday.
Jun 3 2021King will start Friday's game against the Red Sox, Lindsey Adler of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He has a 2.86 ERA, 1.32 WHIP and 20 strikeouts in 22 innings this season. King logged 2.1 innings in his most recent outing May 30 in Detroit and hasn't pitched more than three innings in a game since he logged six innings April 4.
May 30 2021King (0-2) was tagged with the loss Sunday against the Tigers after allowing four runs (two earned) on three hits and two walks while fanning two across 2.1 innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King couldn't even get out of the third inning due to his command issues -- tossing just 37 of his 63 pitches for strikes -- and his lack of effectiveness. This was his first start of the campaign and while the results weren't encouraging, he's still been a reliable presence on the mound for the Yankees and owns a 2.86 ERA on the season.
May 29 2021King will start Sunday against the Tigers, Erik Boland of Newsday reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Yankees are down a starter with Corey Kluber shut down for four weeks with a shoulder strain. King relieved Kluber after he got hurt Tuesday against Toronto, allowing one run in three innings. It's unclear if he'll replace Kluber long term, as that honor could also go to Deivi Garcia, who started Saturday against the Tigers but was optioned following the game.
May 26 2021King covered three innings out of the bullpen Tuesday in the Yankees' 6-2 loss to the Blue Jays, surrendering one run on six hits and a walk while striking out three. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King tossed 54 pitches over the three-inning appearance, his longest outing since April 16. The Yankees needed King to eat innings after starter Corey Kluber covered only three frames before departing with right shoulder tightness. The Yankees will send Kluber in for an MRI on Wednesday to glean a better picture of the severity of his injury, leaving his availability in question for his next turn through the rotation Sunday in Detroit. King and Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre starter Deivi Garcia would appear to be the leading candidates to step into the rotation if Kluber isn't cleared for the weekend.
May 16 2021King (0-1) allowed one run on two hits and a walk in two innings to take the loss against the Orioles on Sunday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King entered Sunday's game in the fourth inning of a 5-5 tie, but he gave up a pair of doubles and was charged with his first loss of 2021. The right-hander has posted a 2.16 ERA and 1.02 WHIP in 16.2 innings across six relief appearances this season.
May 14 2021King pitched 2.1 innings in relief against Tampa Bay on Thursday, allowing three runs on two hits and two walks while striking out six. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander came on in relief of Jameson Taillon with a pair of runners on base and two outs in the bottom of the fifth inning. King registered a strikeout to escape the jam but then served up a three-run homer to Randy Arozarena in the next frame. The trio of runs were the first King has given up this season. Despite the imperfect outing, he still owns a 1.84 ERA and 0.95 WHIP across 14.2 innings.
May 1 2021King was recalled by the Yankees on Saturday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King continues to be shuffled between the Yankees' alternate training site and the major-league roster. He'll rejoin the big-league bullpen after Darren O'Day (shoulder) was placed on the 10-day IL in a corresponding move.
Apr 28 2021King was optioned to the alternate training site after Wednesday's win over the Orioles. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 25-year-old rejoined the big-league roster Tuesday and will head back to the alternate site after firing two scoreless innings during Wednesday's victory. King has yet to allow a run through 11 innings for the Yankees this season, so it shouldn't be too long before he's back in the majors. Wandy Peralta is expected to be added to the roster Thursday after being acquired from the Giants earlier this week.
Apr 27 2021The Yankees recalled King from their alternate training site Tuesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He'll be taking the active roster spot of Deivi Garcia, who was optioned to the Yankees' alternate site following his spot start in Monday's loss to the Orioles. King was effective over two long-relief outings with the Yankees earlier this season, covering nine scoreless frames while allowing only eight baserunners.
Apr 16 2021King was optioned to the Yankees' alternate training site Friday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King served as the primary pitcher in Friday's loss to the Rays and allowed two hits and three walks while striking out four in three scoreless frames. He didn't factor into the decision. The right-hander has now tossed nine scoreless frames in his first two appearances this year and could return to the majors at some point as a long reliever or as an option to serve as a starter.
Apr 10 2021King is part of the Yankees' taxi squad for their current road trip, Brendan Kuty of The Newark Star-Ledger reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King was optioned to the team's alternate site Tuesday, but there's little doubt that he'll be back in the majors at some point during the campaign. The right-hander tossed six scoreless innings out of the bullpen against Toronto on April 4 in his lone outing of the season.
Apr 6 2021King was optioned to the Yankees' alternate training site Tuesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: This move clears a spot for Rougned Odor on the active roster. King logged six scoreless innings in long relief Sunday against the Blue Jays, so he'll be back in the majors sooner than later to offer length out of the bullpen or perhaps to make a spot start.
Apr 5 2021King pitched six scoreless innings against Toronto on Sunday, allowing one hit and one walk while striking out three. He did not factor in the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Starter Domingo German was removed after yielding three runs across three frames, and the Yankees subsequently handed the ball to King. The right-hander went on to dominate Blue Jays hitters, giving up only a fourth-inning walk and single while retiring the final 16 batters he faced. King ended up throwing as many pitches (68) across his six innings as German did in three, with 48 of the former's throws going for strikes. King will likely be unavailable for a few days due to the extended outing, but it is a positive sign that he looked so good in his first appearance of the campaign after struggling to a 7.76 ERA with the big club last season.
Mar 29 2021King will be a member of the Yankees' Opening Day roster, Brendan Kuty of The Newark Star-Ledger reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King is expected to begin in a bullpen role, but he could be one of the top options to slide into the rotation when a spot start is needed. He hasn't shown much to suggest he'll be an interesting fantasy option should that happen, however, struggling to a 7.22 ERA in 28.2 innings at the major-league level.
Mar 25 2021King hurled 2.1 innings in Thursday's Grapefruit League game versus Philadelphia, allowing seven runs on five hits and two walks while striking out two. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King was knocked around early in the contest, allowing the first four Philadelphia batters to reach base before getting his first out and yielding five runs prior to being pulled for a reliever. He went back out for the second frame and allowed another two runs before pitching a clean third inning. King has given up 12 earned runs across 15.1 inning this spring and may have pitched his way out of a roster spot with Thursday's ugly outing.
Feb 26 2021King is slated to take the mound for the Yankees' first spring training game against Toronto on Sunday, Marly Rivera of ESPN.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King is among a group of pitchers manager Aaron Boone mentioned as being in competition for the fifth-starter job, and he'll have a chance to showcase his stuff immediately against the Blue Jays. The right-hander struggled mightily in 26.2 big-league innings last season, so he'll likely need to dominate during spring training to claim a spot in the Opening Day rotation.
Feb 21 2021King spent the offseason focused on improving the third pitch in his arsenal, Bryan Hoch of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King acknowledged the need for a reliable third pitch in light of his struggles during the 2020 campaign, during which he posted a 7.76 ERA and 1.54 WHIP. "You need a third pitch to pitch in the big leagues, especially if you want to get through the order a second time," he explained while discussing his biggest takeaway from the shortened season. He is likely referring to his changeup, which he threw 14.9 percent of the time last season -- just below the 19.4 percent usage rate on his curveball -- and that batters hit .278 against. As much as King is able to improve his effectiveness with the offering, he'll first need to do a better job of getting batters out with his sinker -- he threw the pitch 59.5 percent of the time in 2020, yielding a .328 batting average to opponents.
Feb 17 2021King was mentioned by manager Aaron Boone on Wednesday as one of a handful of pitchers who could be competing for the fifth-starter job this spring, Max Goodman of Sports Illustrated reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King struggled to the tune of a 7.76 ERA and 1.54 WHIP over 26.2 innings last season, so he is likely a longshot to open the season in the rotation. Still, Boone suggested that there will be a competition among a handful of pitchers for the final rotation spot heading into the campaign, so King could be given the opportunity if he turns heads during spring training.
Oct 5 2020King will be on the Yankees' roster for the ALDS against the Rays. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Yankees add an extra arm for the series, dropping third-string catcher Erik Kratz to make room for King. The 25-year-old made four starts and five relief appearances this season, struggling to a 7.76 ERA in 26.2 innings. He'll presumably be limited to low-leverage duty in this series.
Sep 22 2020King was optioned to the Yankees' alternate training site Tuesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King was charged with his second loss of the season Monday as he only lasted 2.2 innings against the Blue Jays, and he'll be cast off the active roster as a result. It's unclear who could take King's spot in the rotation for the final game of the regular season Sunday.
Sep 21 2020King (1-2) took the loss Monday against Toronto, allowing five runs on five hits and a walk across 2.2 innings. He struck out six. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King was sharp through two innings, striking out four Jays while allowing just one hit. He ran into trouble in the third, however, allowing four hits and a walk before getting removed with two outs. He left trailing 3-1, but was charged with two additional runs when Vladimir Guerrero belted a two-run double off Jonathan Loaisiga. The shaky outing brought the right-hander's ERA to an ugly 7.76 on the season. If he's given another start, it will likely come in the regular-season finale against Miami on Sunday.
Sep 9 2020King retired both hitters he faced in relief during Tuesday's 2-1 loss to the Blue Jays, striking out one in his nine-pitch appearance. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King's prior three appearances had come as a starter, with the Yankees expanding their rotation due to a slew of doubleheaders. The Yankees downsized their rotation to five this week, and since Deivi Garcia was called up from the alternate site to start Wednesday's series finale, he'll seemingly stick in the rotation over King for now.
Sep 4 2020King allowed three runs on four hits and two walks while striking out three over four innings in Friday's Game 1 win against the Orioles. He didn't factor into the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King was making his third start of the season to begin Friday's twin bill, but he didn't factor into the decision as he struggled against the long ball. The right-hander hasn't had any scoreless outings this season and now carries a 6.33 ERA over 21.1 innings. His next appearance could come out of the bullpen.
Aug 30 2020King allowed two runs on six hits and one walk while striking out three over 3.2 innings in Sunday's Game 1 loss to the Mets. He didn't factor into the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After earning his first major-league win during his last start, King was called on for the first game of Sunday's twin bill. He was slightly less effective against the Mets, and he had to settle for a no-decision as the Yankees came from behind to win the matinee. It's unclear when King will next take the mound, especially since Deivi Garcia was effective in his major-league debut during Sunday's nightcap.
Aug 22 2020King was mentioned by Yankees manager Aaron Boone as a potential rotation replacement for James Paxton (forearm), Bryan Hoch of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Paxton hit the 10-day injured list Friday and is expected to spend at least two weeks on the shelf, creating an opening in the team's rotation. While a decision has not yet been reached on who will fill Paxton's spot, Boone mentioned King, Nick Nelson and Jonathan Loaisiga as candidates Saturday. The Yankees may take their time making a choice since they will be able to essentially reset their rotation due to the cancellation of their weekend series against the Mets.
Aug 8 2020King (0-1) took the loss in Game 2 of Saturday's doubleheader in Tampa Bay after allowing three runs on one hit and five walks over 3.2 innings. He had four strikeouts. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 25-year-old entered Saturday with a 6:0 K:BB through seven innings this season, but he never showed much command Saturday, throwing only 36 of his 70 pitches for strikes. King has a 7.59 ERA and 1.13 WHIP across 10.2 innings this season and should return to his role as a long reliever.
Aug 3 2020King completed 3.2 innings against Boston on Sunday, allowing two runs on two hits while striking out four. He did not factor in the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: For the second time this season, King came in to log multiple relief innings following a short start by James Paxton. King was better Sunday than in his first outing, but both hits he allowed left the yard, temporarily staking Boston to a lead after each long ball. Paxton's spot in the rotation looks to be secure despite his early season struggles, but King would be among the candidates to step in if the former were to miss any turns.
Jul 21 2020King will be on the Yankees' Opening Day roster, Randy Miller of The Newark Star-Ledger reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King was battling for a spot with the Yankees' pitching staff during camp, and he was selected for the roster over Clarke Schmidt, who was sent to the alternate training site Tuesday. The pair of moves could signal that King will open the season with a spot in the starting rotation while Masahiro Tanaka (concussion) continues to recover. The right-hander logged a 5.48 ERA and 1.24 WHIP over 46 innings in the minors last year.
Jul 10 2020King is a candidate to open the campaign in the starting rotation if Masahiro Tanaka (concussion) is not ready at the start of the season, Brendan Kuty of NJ Advance Media reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Yankees appeared to have their starting rotation set and healthy heading into summer camp, but Tanaka's scary encounter with a line drive off the bat of Giancarlo Stanton has his status for Opening Day in question. Should Tanaka be unable to go, a trio of pitchers -- including King, Jonathan Loaisiga and Clarke Schmidt -- are candidates to fill in. Even if he doesn't grab a temporary starting spot, King could make the team as a long reliever.
Mar 9 2020King has struggled in his last two Grapefruit League starts and may no longer be in the mix for a spot in the Opening Day rotation, Randy Miller of NJ Advance Media reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King got off to a strong start this spring but struggled in an appearance against Philadelphia on Monday, allowing two runs on four hits and a walk in 2.2 innings. With Jordan Montgomery and Jonathan Loaisiga the favorites to land the No. 4 and No. 5 spots in the Yankees' Opening Day rotation, King figures to be the odd man out, per Miller.
Feb 5 2020King is in contention for the Yankees' fifth starter spot to open the season, Bryan Hoch of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: With Domingo German (suspension) out until early June and James Paxton (back) out until at least early May, a temporary spot has opened up in the rotation at Yankee Stadium. King may not be the favorite to win it, as he has just two innings of big-league experience under his belt, but he projects as a potential back-end starter long-term and may get the chance to stake his claim for that spot this spring.
Sep 28 2019King gave up one unearned run in two innings against the Rangers on Friday. He allowed two hits and struck out one batter. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: King made his major-league debut eight days after he was called up to join the Yankees. He allowed an unearned run after committing an error in the eighth inning but otherwise looked sharp in his two frames, throwing 24 of 41 pitches for strikes and surrendering only a pair of singles. The 24-year-old is not in consideration for the postseason roster but could compete for a spot with the big club next season.
Sep 19 2019King's contract was purchased from Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre on Thursday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: With Domingo German getting placed on administrative leave, King was summoned from the minors to take the open bullpen spot. A stress reaction in his throwing elbow erased his entire first half. Since getting healthy, King logged a 5.33 ERA, 1.30 WHIP and 52 strikeouts in 54 innings (12 appearances) in the minors, primarily at Double-A and Triple-A. King, who is more about pitchability and command than high-end stuff, broke out with a big year in 2018 and has a chance to compete for a permanent spot on the big-league roster at some point next year. Look for him to work in low-leverage situations down the stretch.