Teams searching for bullpen help ahead of the August 3 MLB trade deadline might have to look elsewhere.
That's because it appears unlikely that the San Diego Padres trade elite closer Mason Miller at the deadline, which is now just four days away.
One source familiar with the Padres' thinking doesn't believe the team will deal Miller to another club by Monday.
"I don't see it happening," the source said.
Padres president of baseball operations A.J. Preller wants to win and is known for being the most aggressive executive in the game. The Padres are currently on a five-game winning streak and are just 1.5 games out of the final National League Wild Card spot. They desperately need to add starting pitching if they decide to buy.
Among the teams that are interested in Miller include the New York Yankees, according to sources.
The Yankees and Padres already pulled off a blockbuster deal for superstar outfielder Juan Soto back in December of 2023.
Miller would immediately slide into the closer's role for the Yankees and form a strong 1-2 punch with David Bednar, who would become the team's setup man.
However, the asking price for Miller is said to be extremely high. And with good reason given he is the best closer in baseball and comes along with three more years of control beyond this season.
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The Padres acquired Miller and lefty JP Sears at last year's trade deadline from the Athletics in exchange for top prospect Leo De Vries and a package of minor league players.
The Yankees and several teams have interest in Miller, but don't expect the Padres to trade him at the deadline.
