San Diego Padres
· 2026-07-05
The San Diego Padres are considering trading Mason Miller, their lone All-Star and closer, as the season slips away.
The Padres are currently 11th in the National League with a 43-44 record, and have lost their last 7 games, including a 4-3 loss to the Los Angeles Dodgers on July 4, 2026.
The team's struggles have led to speculation about potential trades, with Miller's name being mentioned as a possible candidate.
Miller has been excellent for the Padres, with a 0.78 ERA and 17 strikeouts per nine innings since joining the team last August.
However, the Padres have a history of finding effective closers, and Miller's trade value may be high.
The Padres will face the Los Angeles Dodgers again on July 5, 2026, and will look to snap their losing streak.
Manager Craig Stammen downplayed the idea of trade talks being a distraction for the players, saying they are focused on competing every day.
The Padres are still in the hunt for a playoff spot, but their chances are slipping away.
Mason Miller's performance has been a bright spot for the team, with a majors-best FIP of 0.43 and no home runs allowed in 34.2 innings this year.
The Padres' front office, led by A.J. Preller, will have to decide whether to trade Miller or hold onto him.
The team's history of finding effective closers, including Kirby Yates and Josh Hader, may factor into their decision.
The trade deadline is August 3, and the Padres will have to weigh their options carefully.