The San Diego Padres are reportedly facing a difficult decision regarding star closer Mason Miller as the MLB trade deadline approaches. With the team struggling significantly in the 2026 season, sitting 15 games behind the division leader and 4.5 games out of an NL Wild-Card spot, Miller has emerged as a prominent trade candidate.
Despite the Padres' overall poor performance, Miller has been a standout, posting a 0.98 ERA with 67 strikeouts across 36.2 innings pitched entering Thursday's game against the Arizona Diamondbacks. His dominant start to the season had placed him in early Cy Young Award conversations. However, his success has been largely overshadowed by the team's recent slump, which has seen them lose nine of their last 10 games.
Former general manager Steve Phillips, speaking on MLB Now, advocated for trading Miller. "Yes, they should," Phillips stated. "If the Padres think they’re in it, and they’re gonna go for it, they need starting pitching and offense. Their surplus is bullpen. And Mason Miller is the biggest chip that they have…The Padres have to do that if they want try and get back in it this year."
Acquired by the Padres from the Athletics in a trade deadline deal last summer, Miller could be a significant asset in return for a starting pitcher and a batter, potentially benefiting both the player and the club. The Padres have until the trade deadline on Aug. 3 to finalize their decision on Miller's future with the team.