After the 2023 season, the San Diego Padres and the New York Yankees completed a significant trade involving Juan Soto and Michael King. Soto, along with center fielder Trent Grisham, moved to the Yankees, while the Padres received pitchers Michael King, Drew Thorpe, Jhony Brito, Randy Vazquez, and catcher Kyle Higashioka.
On a recent episode of “SportsCenter,” former professional baseball player Eduardo Perez discussed the trade, emphasizing the value Michael King has brought to the Padres. While it initially seemed like the Yankees had the upper hand by acquiring Soto, Perez pointed out that King’s performances have made the trade highly beneficial for the Padres. In a key playoff game against the Braves, King set the tone, striking out 12 batters in seven innings without allowing any runs. His ability to control the strike zone, especially with his two-seamer and sweeper, made him a dominant force on the mound.
Perez praised King, saying he was one of the most dominant pitchers seen in recent postseason play. This performance showcased why the trade worked well for the Padres, as they acquired a valuable asset in King.
In Game 1 of their playoff series against the Atlanta Braves at Petco Park, the Padres secured a comfortable win, thanks in part to a two-run homer by Fernando Tatis Jr. and a sacrifice fly from Kyle Higashioka. King’s stellar pitching, which included 12 strikeouts and no walks, played a major role in the Padres’ success. With an early lead and King’s dominance, the Padres gained a crucial advantage in the series. They now look to clinch the Wild Card series with a win in the next game.
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