Padres' Closer Miller Placed on Paternity List Ahead of Elimination Game

San Diego Padres All-Star reliever Mason Miller has been placed on Major League Baseball's paternity list, ruling him out for Game 3 of the National League Division Series against the Milwaukee Brewers. The move comes just 45 minutes before the critical win-or-go-home matchup, leaving the Padres without their top bullpen arm in a must-win situation.

Under MLB's postseason paternity rules, Miller is eligible for up to three days off. The team has activated veteran lefty Wandy Peralta to fill his roster spot. If the Padres advance, Miller will rejoin the team upon his return.

The timing of Miller's absence has drawn comparisons to Atlanta Braves pitcher Max Fried, who is also facing a potential playoff start while his partner is due to give birth but has stated his intention to pitch regardless. Miller's departure highlights a debate about player priorities during the postseason.

This situation follows a difficult outing for Miller in Game 2, where he entered with a chance for a six-out save but ultimately surrendered a walk-off single to the Milwaukee Brewers' Jackson Chourio in the ninth inning, costing the Padres the game.