The San Francisco Giants have Logan Webb and Landen Roupp as rotation building blocks, but their offseason priorities require adding more dependable innings around them.

Investing in pitching while preserving meaningful opportunities for young hitters offers the clearest path toward constructing a stronger roster.

One intriguing option is San Diego Padres ace Michael King, who opted out of the final two years and $58 million remaining on his contract and entered free agency.

His decision was unsurprising after a dominant season positioned him to secure a nine-figure contract on the open market.

King was easily the Padres’ leading starter last season, going 12-10 with a 3.21 ERA and 1.18 WHIP in 185 innings over 32 starts.

The right-hander then elevated his performance during the postseason. King allowed only one run on five hits in 14 innings over three appearances (two starts), recording an 0.64 ERA and 0.71 WHIP with 15 strikeouts and one save.

That combination of effectiveness and availability makes King an appealing fit for San Francisco.

He will turn 32 in May, meaning this could represent his last opportunity to secure a long-term contract worth nine figures.

King is arguably the second-best starting pitcher available behind Los Angeles Dodgers ace Tarik Skubal and should receive the substantial agreement he is seeking.

The Padres must also pay King a $5 million buyout because he exercised his opt-out clause.

King would give the Giants another established starter capable of handling a considerable workload. His arrival would strengthen the rotation while reducing the pressure to turn every promising young pitcher into an immediate solution.

San Francisco used too many starters during the 2026 season and received insufficient consistency behind Webb and Roupp.

Adding King would provide another pitcher prepared to take the ball regularly without requiring manager Tony Vitello to rely heavily on inexperienced alternatives.

King’s ability to handle different assignments also demonstrates his adaptability. He has shown that he can start, work from the bullpen and remain effective during the postseason, giving the Giants someone capable of responding to changing circumstances.

His presence would create a more dependable structure around the rotation. Webb, Roupp and King could occupy the leading spots while the Giants continue searching for additional pitchers without forcing a rushed decision.

San Francisco still must evaluate the cost carefully. King’s age and projected contract create risk, while one expensive addition would not complete the pitching staff.

However, the rotation needs both improved performance and more innings. The Giants should seriously pursue King while recognizing that signing him would represent the beginning of their pitching overhaul rather than the end.