Reports: RHPs Michael King, Robert Suarez opt out of Padres' deals

Starter Michael King and closer Robert Suarez both opted out of their respective deals with the San Diego Padres, according to multiple reports on Monday.

The decisions make both right-handers free-agents.

King turned down the $15 million mutual option in his contract after an injury plagued 2025 season. He receives a $3.75 million buyout from the Padres.

King went 5-3 with a 3.44 ERA in 15 starts this season. He began the season as the club's co-ace with Dylan Cease but tossed just 73 1/3 innings in the regular season due to shoulder and knee injuries. King pitched one inning of relief in the postseason.

However, King excelled in 2024 with a 13-9 mark and 2.95 ERA, so the 30-year-old figures to be heavily pursued in the open market.

Suarez used his player option to exit a five-year, $46 million deal that had two seasons and $16 million remaining. He was due $8 million over each of the next two seasons.

Suarez, 34, outplayed the contract with back-to-back All-Star appearances and he led the National League with 40 saves this season.

San Diego figures to use fireballer Mason Miller as its closer in 2026 after acquiring the right-hander from the Athletics at the trade deadline.

Cease is among the Padres who became free agents Sunday. Others include infielder Luis Arraez, first baseman/outfielder Ryan O'Hearn and utility player Jose Iglesias.

--Field Level Media