Yankees Fail to Extend Offer to King Amidst Pitching Concerns

The New York Yankees have opted not to extend an offer to veteran starter Michael King, who has re-signed with the San Diego Padres. This decision comes as the Yankees focus on other targets, as reported by Jon Heyman of the New York Post.

Shifting Focus and New Targets

Heyman's report follows earlier news that the Yankees also did not make an offer to retain relief pitcher Luke Weaver, who has signed with the New York Mets. With the free agency period heating up, New York is looking towards potential acquisitions as they gear up for the upcoming season.

Among their targets is star Japanese pitcher Tatsuya Imai, who has a deadline of January 2 to sign with an MLB team. The Yankees are keeping their eyes on other prominent starters still available, including Framber Valdez, Ranger Suárez, Nick Martinez, Chris Bassitt, and Zac Gallen. However, several other starters have already signed or accepted offers, narrowing the Yankees' options.

Injury Challenges and Need for Pitching Depth

The urgency for the Yankees to secure pitching help has escalated following surgeries to key starters Carlos Rodón, Gerrit Cole, and Clarke Schmidt. All three are set to miss the start of the 2026 campaign, although Rodón and Cole are projected to return in late spring. With this void, the Yankees may be looking at a rotation featuring Max Fried, alongside less experienced pitchers like Will Warren and Cam Schlittler, alongside Luis Gil, who had injury struggles last season.

Moreover, the Yankees also need to bolster their bullpen after the departures of both Weaver and closer Devin Williams to the Mets. According to MLB.com's Bryan Hoch, the team is considering bringing back free agent first baseman Cody Bellinger, though their immediate focus may need to shift towards addressing their pitching needs sooner rather than later as the free agent market contracts.