A.J. Preller is finding traction amid a low-transaction offseason that seems to have been complicated by a budget crunch. Start with Friday’s breakthrough: the arbitration-avoiding, one-year contract reached between Preller and Padres co-ace Michael King.

The San Diego Padres have spoken with teams about potential trades involving Dylan Cease or Michael King. FanSided MLB insider Robert Murray has the latest on the chances of each pitcher being traded.

The New York Mets have been in talks with the San Diego Padres about a potential trade for right-handed pitcher Dylan Cease. However, a deal seems unlikely because the Padres are asking for a high price,