Cubs Get Good News on Rumored MLB Free Agency Target

The Chicago Cubs have been viewed as a potential landing spot for right-hander Michael King after he declined his player option with the San Diego Padres and entered free agency Thursday. King, 31, turned down a $28 million salary for 2027, accepting a $5 million buyout instead and forgoing roughly $53 million remaining on his deal. The decision, first reported by Jon Heyman of the New York Post, makes him one of the top available starting pitchers on the market behind Tarik Skubal. The Cubs’ interest stems from a clear need to rebuild their rotation.