The San Diego Padres enter play on Tuesday trailing by 1 1/2 games in the National League wild card race.
While they are not out of the race, many experts predict that they could trade Mason Miller to acquire some starting pitching to actually make a run, while also adding some prospects to build around in the future. Miller is the best reliever in baseball and could net a monster return. He is under club control through 2029.
"The Padres have told teams that if you want access to Mason Miller, then nobody is off limits in your organization," MLB insider Jeff Pass reported on "Sources Tell Jeff Passan" on Tuesday.
Miller essentially shortens any game by one inning. If he enters the game in the ninth inning with a lead, the game is essentially over. Teams that already have an elite closer, like the Milwaukee Brewers, Philadelphia Phillies, Los Angeles Dodgers or Boston Red Sox, could add Miller and essentially make every game a seven-inning contest.
If the Phillies were to have Jhoan Duran setting up Miller, their team would be a nightmare to face in the postseason with how strong the rest of their roster is. However, teams are going to be hesitant to give up what the Padres are asking for.
The fact that the Padres see themselves as a team that can make a run only drives up the price for Miller. If they were clear sellers and were years away from contending, they may be more open to other offers for Miller.
He has a 0.82 ERA and a National League-best 27 saves. He has yet to blow a save and has more saves than hits allowed on the season.