In warm late-February conditions at Peoria Sports Complex, Michael King took the mound on Wednesday to kick off his Cactus League debut. The 30-year-old pitcher demonstrated promising stamina and control as he pitched for the San Diego Padres during their 7-3 victory, aiming to bounce back from a season hampered by injuries.
Dominant Early Innings Highlight King’s Effectiveness
King breezed through his first two innings, retiring the first six batters on just 23 pitches. His command was evident as he threw 26 of 37 pitches for strikes, striking out four while allowing no walks. However, the third inning proved more challenging, with Angels’ Christian Moore hitting a solo homer, followed by a single from Raudi Rodriguez before Alek Jacob finished the frame.
Building Endurance While Staying Efficient
Coming into the game with a previous bullpen limit of 35 pitches, King was expected to maintain a similar workload but exceeded expectations by pitching three innings. This extra inning was a strategic move to develop his endurance, a critical factor as he recovers from last year’s nerve and knee issues that limited him to just over 73 innings.
Felt like I was in command,
King said after the game.
Stayed in the strike zone. Got some swing and miss. Felt pretty good.
I think the soreness almost comes after multiple ups instead of multiple pitches. So happy to go three and recover and get ready for next one.
Manager Praises King’s Performance and Health
Padres manager Craig Stammen was impressed with King’s outing, noting that the initial plan was for King to pitch two innings, but his effectiveness earned him an additional inning to boost his recovery process and game readiness.
He pitched great; looked really good,
Stammen said.
We had him scheduled for at least two and then he looked so good, we let him go out there for the third. So a lot of good work for him today. Looks healthy. Threw the ball great.
Outlook for Upcoming Appearances
This performance sets a hopeful foundation for King, who is expected to increase his pitch count to 45-50 and aim for four to five innings in his next start. His ability to combine efficiency with extending innings will be crucial as he prepares for a full season after last year’s injury setbacks in Arizona’s Cactus League.
