Since signing Soto to a historic 15-year, $765 million contract, the Mets have set their sights on creating pitching depth. They have signed four pitchers, including bringing back left-hander Sean Manaea, who could impact the rotation in some form this season, and six relievers, including r e-signing right-hander Ryne Stanek.

This mock trade involving the New York Mets and the San Diego Padres could send Michael King to Queens, keeping him away from New York's NL East rivals, the Atlanta Braves.

It’s hard to fathom why an MLB team with a payroll pushing $200 million needs to shed salary to stay competitive, but the San Diego Padres are once again looking to trim their payroll.