The Boston Red Sox, after trading Rafael Devers, are in search of significant improvements to their starting rotation despite acquiring Kyle Harrison and Jordan Hicks. The team may need to explore the trade market for short-term solutions, but eyes are on the 2026 free agency class for a long-term answer. Among potential targets, Michael King, the San Diego Padres pitcher, stands out as an option. King's impressive 2025 season includes a 2.59 ERA and 64 strikeouts over 55.2 innings, making him a valuable asset. With the likely departures of Walker Buehler and Lucas Giolito, King could provide the quality Boston desperately needs.

King's situation is complicated by a mutual option for 2026, but if he believes he can fetch a better deal on the open market, he may opt for free agency. The Red Sox's Chief Baseball Officer, Craig Breslow, faces pressure to improve the rotation and signing King could help regain credibility after the Devers trade. With the team currently ranked 17th in starting pitching, investing in a proven arm like King's could be an essential move toward improving their competitiveness.