The Chicago Cubs went down swinging in the NLDS, pushing the Milwaukee Brewers to five games before bowing out. But as the dust settles on their first postseason appearance in five years, one thing has become clear — if Chicago wants to take the next step, it must rebuild from the mound outward.
According to Bleacher Report’s Zachary D. Rymer, the Cubs are expected to prioritize pitching this offseason, with San Diego Padres ace Michael King emerging as a prime target.
“Even if Kyle Tucker headlines are likely to dominate the Cubs’ offseason, it’s arguably the rotation that should take priority,” Rymer wrote. “They can afford to go after Dylan Cease or Framber Valdez, but King has a certain appeal that both of them don’t.”
Why Michael King Fits Chicago’s Needs
Despite posting a respectable 3.83 team ERA in 2025, the Cubs’ starting rotation was inconsistent and heavily reliant on streaks. With injuries and uneven depth behind Shota Imanaga and Matthew Boyd, Chicago often found itself overextending its bullpen in key series.
That’s where Michael King could change the equation.
Though limited by injuries this past season, King still managed a 3.44 ERA, a 5-3 record, and 76 strikeouts over 15 starts. The year before, during his Cy Young-caliber 2024 campaign, he recorded a 2.95 ERA, 13 wins, and 201 strikeouts while serving as the Padres’ rotation anchor.
At 30 years old, King remains in his prime — a proven top-end arm capable of stabilizing a rotation that flashed promise but lacked true dominance.
A Rotation to Rival Milwaukee
Pairing King with Imanaga and Boyd would instantly elevate the Cubs’ pitching profile. The trio would give Chicago one of the most complete rotations in the NL Central, potentially flipping the balance of power that favored Milwaukee in 2025.
“With King, Shota Imanaga, and Matthew Boyd leading the way, the Cubs could boast the best rotation in the division,” Rymer noted.
Beyond raw performance, King brings postseason experience and a competitive edge that fits the Cubs’ clubhouse culture — gritty, adaptable, and hungry.
The Path Forward
As the Cubs front office evaluates its offseason priorities, Kyle Tucker’s free agency will undoubtedly dominate headlines. But Rymer argues that investing heavily in pitching, not just star power, is the key to sustained success.
The blueprint is simple: if the Cubs want to contend with powerhouses like the Dodgers, Braves, and Phillies, they’ll need an ace who can set the tone every fifth day.
With Michael King available, that phone call might be one worth making.
“Hopefully, the Cubs realize this,” Rymer concluded, “and pick up the phone to see if they can get King to play in the Friendly Confines for the next few seasons.”
