The Milwaukee Brewers find themselves in a unique position, with a wealth of MLB talent and a deep farm system. This sets them up for a potential calculated risk—acquiring a top-tier, rental starting pitcher from the San Diego Padres.
San Diego Padres’ Trade Possibility:
As reported by Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic, Padres pitcher Michael King is among the trade candidates still available. King, entering his final arbitration year, is negotiating a 2025 salary—he filed for $8.8 million, while San Diego proposed $7.3 million.
What Will It Take to Acquire Michael King?
If the Padres decide to part with King, his asking price would be lower than that of fellow trade target, Dylan Cease, another front-line starter also on the block. With both pitchers available, the Padres are likely to demand at least one MLB-ready pitcher or a highly regarded prospect, plus another player in return.
Brewers-Padres Trade Proposal:
Brewers Receive:
RHP Michael King
Padres Receive:
RHP Carlos Rodriguez
RHP K.C. Hunt
This potential deal sends two top 30 Brewers prospects to the Padres. Rodriguez, who made his MLB debut last season, boasts a diverse pitching arsenal and could benefit from learning from veterans like Yu Darvish. Meanwhile, Hunt had a breakout year with a 2.03 ERA over 102 innings pitched, finishing the season in Double-A.
Acquiring King would immediately bolster the Brewers’ starting rotation. After posting a career-best 2.95 ERA in 172.2 innings last season, King has proven his value. If he continues his strong performance, he could command a hefty contract next season. In that case, the Brewers could benefit by extending him a qualifying offer, ensuring a compensatory draft pick if he signs elsewhere in free agency.
