Note: this podcast was recorded LIVE for the patrons of Padres Hot Tub literally minutes after the announcement of the signing of Michael King, on the PHT Discord. You can be part of the fun (which included a hint on the platform hours in advance that a move was coming) and future live broadcasts by supporting our independent production at patreon.com/padreshottub

ON THE SHOW: Craig Elsten and Chris Reed are joined by a jubilant and suddenly-gathered group of PHT patrons to discuss the announcement that staff ace Michael King is coming back to the club on a new free agent deal! The contract includes a 12M signing bonus, 5M salary for 2026, and player options at 28M and 30M for 2027 and 2028, with a 5M buyout if King opts out the first season. Needless to say, this sparks discussion about the (erroneous?) reporting that the Padres didn't have money to spend, the idea of a King-Pivetta-Musgrove top of the rotation, and the idea that AJ Preller may now have strategic flexibility to make a trade if he has to. Recorded live just after 8pm PST on 12/18/25 live for our patrons on our PHT Discord Group Therapy stage!