
The New York Mets have the third-highest payroll in the MLB, and it could increase if they make some much-needed acquisitions. Perhaps they could add another starter, giving the rotation more upside and depth.
The Padres have made Michael King and Dylan Cease available for trade
The San Diego Padres intend to compete in 2025 but currently have severe payroll limitations. It’s part of the reason why they haven’t spent much in the offseason and lost important free agents like Jurickson Profar, Tanner Scott, Ha-Seong Kim, and more.

They have even entertained the possibility of trading some high-priced pitchers, like Dylan Cease and Michael King. These pitchers they have placed on the trade block could potentially pique the Mets’ interest:
“While I’ve heard the asking price for Dylan Cease has been extremely high, Michael King is now reportedly available and in my opinion would be a good fit for the Mets as a one year rental. Both pitchers are heading into the final year of their deals,” SI.com’s Pat Ragazzo posted on X.
As Ragazzo suggests, acquiring Cease would be significantly pricier than King. The former is seen more closely to being an ace than King as his 3.47 ERA in 2024 indicates, as well as his longer track record as a reliable starter.
- Mets’ second half hero already knows his 2025 role
- Mets star free agent acquisition looks phenomenal in throwing session
- Mets star infielder ‘loves’ pressure and high expectations
King would be a solid upgrade for the Mets

King, however, might be every bit as good, so the Mets should pounce if they see an opportunity. He had a much better 2.95 ERA in 173.2 innings last year, and both had similar K/9 numbers (10.65 Cease, compared to King’s 10.42).
King has only been a full-time starter for a year, but he responded well to the increased workload. If anything, the Mets should see the relatively low wear and tear in his arm as a positive. Both pitchers will hit free agency after the conclusion of the upcoming 2025 campaign. Either of the two would represent a sizable upgrade for the Mets.