REPORT: Michael King Re-Signs with the Padres | Do the Mets Really NEED to Add an ACE?

The New York Mets miss out on Michael King as he re-signs with the San Diego Padres, intensifying the search for a frontline starter. Can Nolan McLean emerge as the Mets’ new ace in his rookie season, or will a trade for Nick Pivetta or another top arm change the rotation’s dynamic? Ryan Finkelstein tackles the impact of losing King, potential pivots to free agent targets like Zac Gallen and Framber Valdez, and evaluates internal options like Clay Holmes, David Peterson, and Kodai Senga. Prospect buzz around Jonah Tong and Brandon Sproat gets a closer look, alongside trade rumors for Freddy Peralta and Tarik Skubal. With Juan Soto’s influence on recruiting and key decisions looming for the Mets’ rotation and outfield, every move carries playoff implications. Will the Mets prioritize reliability, or gamble on upside as free agency heats up? Everydayer Club If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio , access to our members-only Discord , and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub JOIN THE LOCKED ON METS INSIDER COMMUNITY: https://joinsubtext.com/lockedonmets Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONMLB for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The NBA and NFL seasons are here, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER : 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.