Padres' All-Star Closer Mason Miller Unavailable for Must-Win NLDS Game 3

The San Diego Padres will be without their closer, Mason Miller, for Tuesday night's crucial Game 3 of the National League Division Series against the Milwaukee Brewers. Major League Baseball approved Miller's placement on the Postseason Paternity List, a move that will sideline the All-Star reliever for at least one and up to three days.

Left-hander Wandy Peralta has been added to the Padres' NLDS roster as Miller's replacement. Miller will rejoin the team once his paternity leave concludes.

The absence of Miller, widely considered one of baseball's most dominant relief pitchers, creates a significant void for the Padres, who are facing elimination after dropping the first two games of the series in Milwaukee. Miller's ability to close out games with high-velocity fastballs was a key asset for San Diego.

In Game 2, Miller was on the brink of securing a save, needing just one out in the ninth inning. However, he issued three consecutive walks before surrendering a walk-off, two-run single to the Brewers' Jackson Chourio, resulting in a 4-3 loss for the Padres.

During the regular season, Miller posted a 1.67 ERA with 38 saves and recorded 129 strikeouts in 70 innings pitched. Last postseason, he set a record by striking out the first eight batters he faced, showcasing a fastball that reached 104.5 mph.

With Miller unavailable, the responsibility of closing out potential late leads will fall to other members of the Padres' bullpen as they attempt to extend their season in Game 3.