Oct 1, 2023; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; New York Yankees starting pitcher Michael King (34) pitches during the first inning at Kauffman Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-USA TODAY Sports
MLB: New York Yankees at Kansas City Royals
NEW YORK — It’s not often a player will grade a trade that he’s a part of.
But a former Yankees reliever — Michael King — believes his new team got the better end of the deal.
“I continue to praise [Padres general manager] A.J. Preller and be confident in saying I feel like the Padres won the trade,’’ King said in a interview on Monday. “I feel like the talent we’ve gotten, I was shocked to see the Yankees part with that many people. Obviously, it’s Juan Soto, so you have to give up a big package, but I was pumped to see who was coming with me to San Diego. I know they’re gonna contribute this year and for years to come.”
King was sent to the Padres in deal to acquire superstar Juan Soto. As part of the blockbuster trade, New York also sent catcher Kyle Higashioka and a trio of young pitchers: Randy Vasquez, Jhony Brito, and prospect Drew Thorpe.
The 28-year-old appeared in 49 games (nine starts) and pitched to a sparkling 2.75 ERA and a 1.14 WHIP in 49 appearances (nine starts.) King, who is under team control for two more seasons, is expected to be a centerpiece for the new look Padres.
“I’m excited to start a new chapter in my career as a starter,’’ the right-hander said. “I’ve had those conversations with [the Padres] and that’s what they expect out of me and that’s what I want them to expect out of me. I’m going to continue to pitch with a chip on my shoulder.”
Sure, it’s fun to grade a trade. But who “wins” trade is usually subjective, especially when it involves prospects.
If the Yankees fail this season and subsequently don’t re-sign Soto , you can certainly make the argument they lost the deal. But let’s cross that bridge when the time comes.
What we do know is the Padres entered 2023 with World Series aspirations and fell flat out their face.
