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A fascinating rumor explains why the San Diego Padres must absolutely trade All-Star closer Mason Miller before the Aug. 3 MLB trade deadline.
We are just 12 days away from the 2026 trade deadline, and there has already been a ton of speculation about the players that could be moved before next Monday. However, one intriguing name that has emerged in recent trade chatter is the Padres closer.
The 27-year-old has been MLB’s best 9th inning man in 2026. Posting a 0.86 ERA, 25 saves, and 78 strikeouts in only 41.2 innings. Despite being so good, it has not stopped the Padres from having a mediocre 50-51 record heading into Wednesday’s games. A stunning turnaround is unlikely this year, so San Diego must consider being sellers, and Miller is their best trade chip.
Yet, he is still just a reliever. He won’t get the sort of return that some teams will fork over for a top-line starter. Or maybe they will, according to ESPN’s Jeff Passan.
In his shared report with Buster Olney, the MLB insider notes that this will be a strong sellers’ market with many clubs still holding on to hope of reaching the postseason this fall if they can make some key moves.
San Diego Padres trading Mason Miller is best for business
The Padres gave up a lot to get Miller last year, including one of the sport’s most talented prospects, shortstop Leo De Vries. A few weeks ago, it looked like getting a similar return was not happening in any potential trade. However, based on Passan’s claim, it now looks possible if a contending team is desperate enough.
That is why the Padres must move Miller now, while his market is as strong as it will ever be. Furthermore, another key reason why they can land a fantastic return is that the star closer is under arbitration control for three more seasons. He is not a rental that will just hit free agency after the season. Meaning even more teams could get involved in the sweepstakes and create a bidding war for him.
San Diego has several contracts they are stuck with for a long time. Plus, it is unclear if their new ownership will be big spenders once they officially take over. That is why they must think long-term and acquire future stars at team-friendly rates now while they can get them for the price of just their closer.
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