Michael King returned to the San Diego Padres’ starting rotation this past weekend against the Boston Red Sox. Moreover, with his return, Padres manager Mike Shildt believes that adding King on top of their trade deadline moves is an added boost.
During an MLB Network Radio on SiriusXM appearance, Shildt elaborated on what it means to have the 30-year-old right-hander back on the mound as San Diego pushes to win the NL West.
“Michael has been a staple for us,” Shildt said. “Last year was arguably our ace, pitching like it, started the season pitching like it. And then you mentioned him being out for almost three months, and getting him back is great to see him out there.
“So, he’s always going to compete well. The stuff was good, as you would expect. Still knocking off a little rust, but the future is bright with Michael King in our rotation.”
With the #Padres rotation whole again, confidence is rolling HIGH in the Golden State.#ForTheFaithful
🔗 https://t.co/76FWOFLLhH pic.twitter.com/v8zXDuV7P2— MLB Network Radio on SiriusXM (@MLBNetworkRadio) August 11, 2025
King came back to pitch two innings against the Red Sox as San Diego works on getting him back into the rhythm needed for a starting pitcher. Plus, with the Padres’ bullpen, they likely need him to cover a certain number of innings before the relievers can take over and close it out.
MORE: Padres’ Dylan Cease receives $21 million free agent prediction
This season, the veteran pitcher has started 11 games, going 4-2 while recording a 2.81 ERA and registering 65 strikeouts. If King can find his groove, it’s another concern that the opposition will need to worry about as the Padres push for the division.
After Monday’s action, San Diego are only one game back of the Los Angeles Dodgers, and this upcoming weekend will be the first three games of the six that these two rivals will play in August.
