Padres Notes: Michael King Settles In After Slow Start; Rotation Taking Shape; Lineup Gaining Consistency
The San Diego Padres’ 2025 season is well underway, and while the team continues to find its rhythm, one of the more encouraging developments has been the steady improvement of right-hander Michael King. After arriving from the New York Yankees as part of the blockbuster Juan Soto trade, King’s early struggles had some questioning whether the transition to a full-time starter would stick. But over the past few weeks, King has settled into a groove, showcasing the talent and versatility that made him such an intriguing acquisition.
King Shakes Off Early Woes
King’s first handful of starts in a Padres uniform were uneven, to say the least. Command issues, mechanical inconsistencies, and the challenge of facing National League hitters for the first time led to some rough outings. His ERA hovered north of 5.00 through his first three starts, and there were flashes of frustration on the mound. However, King and Padres pitching coach Ruben Niebla made adjustments to his pitch sequencing and mechanics, particularly with his slider and changeup usage.
The results have been striking. In his last four outings, King has posted a 2.25 ERA, racked up 28 strikeouts in 24 innings, and significantly cut down on his walks. His signature sweeping slider has regained its bite, and his fastball command has been sharper. King’s ability to generate weak contact, particularly with runners on base, has also stood out, giving the Padres confidence that his early struggles were more about adjustment than long-term concern.
Rotation Taking Shape
King’s emergence has been particularly important as the Padres’ rotation begins to take clearer form. Joe Musgrove remains the staff ace, providing steady, veteran leadership and a reliable presence every fifth day. Behind him, Yu Darvish has battled some minor injuries but continues to deliver quality innings when healthy. Michael King, Dylan Cease, and lefty Adrian Morejon round out a rotation that has the potential to be among the most balanced in the National League.
With King finding his rhythm and Morejon showing flashes of dominance, the Padres’ starting five is finally stabilizing after an early stretch where injuries and inconsistency forced a revolving door of arms into key starts. Manager Mike Shildt expressed confidence that the current group has the talent to keep the team competitive deep into the summer.
“We’re seeing these guys settle into their routines,” Shildt said. “Michael has been especially impressive in how he’s adjusted. It’s not always easy when you’re transitioning from a swingman to a full-time starter, but he’s really embraced the challenge and we’re excited about what he brings.”
Lineup Finding Regularity
On the offensive side, the Padres’ lineup is also beginning to take shape, with Shildt opting for more consistency in daily lineups after a rotation-heavy approach in the early weeks of the season. Stars like Fernando Tatis Jr. and Manny Machado are locked into their spots, but the roles around them are solidifying. Xander Bogaerts continues to find comfort at second base, while Jake Cronenworth has settled into a near-everyday role at first base.
The outfield picture is also gaining clarity. Jurickson Profar’s strong start has earned him regular playing time in left field, while center field has become a platoon between Trent Grisham and Jackson Merrill, depending on matchups. The Padres are hoping that regular playing time for key bats will help the offense find the consistency it lacked early on.
“We’ve been trying to get everyone in rhythm,” Shildt noted. “Having guys know their roles and getting those everyday at-bats is crucial. We’re starting to see the benefits of that.”
Looking Ahead
With Michael King finding his footing, the rotation stabilizing, and the lineup gaining regularity, the Padres are optimistic that their rough early patches are behind them. As they chase the Los Angeles Dodgers and Arizona Diamondbacks in the NL West, the pieces are gradually falling into place for San Diego to mount a sustained playoff push.
The team knows it won’t be easy, but with King’s resurgence and the rotation rounding into form, the Padres believe they have the talent and depth to compete deep into the summer and, hopefully, into October.