The Oakland Athletics continue to receive numerous trade inquiries about Mason Miller as the MLB trade deadline nears, yet the team refuses to entertain any offers for their star closer. Despite a disappointing 42-60 record placing them last in the AL West, the Athletics view Miller as an indispensable asset they are unwilling to part with. The ongoing interest in Miller underscores his rising value, but the Athletics remain committed to keeping him in their roster.
As the trade deadline approaches, teams around the league, including the New York Mets, have shown persistent interest, trying to acquire the hard-throwing closer. Nevertheless, the Athletics’ response has been consistent; they are not open to negotiations or discussions about trading Miller, maintaining a clear boundary amid the swirling speculation.
Challenges Facing the Athletics and Their Reluctance to Trade
The Athletics’ struggles this season have been evident, with their win-loss record reflecting a deep slump, currently trailing 18 games below a .500 winning percentage. They have failed to make the playoffs since 2020, and there appears to be little immediate improvement in sight. Although owner John J. Fisher is investing in a new stadium project for Las Vegas, fan frustration remains high due to perceived inactivity in securing impactful new players.
During the 2024 offseason, the Athletics undertook some transactions primarily aimed at avoiding revenue-sharing penalties, but these moves did not translate into improved on-field performance. As the team looks at a potential fifth consecutive year absent from postseason baseball, their young talents have become their sole hope for rebuilding a competitive future. Among these, Jacob Wilson, Brent Rooker, and Mason Miller stand out, with Miller attracting the most attention from other clubs.
What Distinguishes Mason Miller as a Sought-After Pitcher?
Mason Miller is widely regarded as a premier closer with significant upside, making him a prime target for teams aiming to strengthen their bullpens for playoff runs. At 26 years old, Miller made his MLB debut in 2023, but it was in 2024 that he truly burst onto the scene. That year, he earned his first All-Star selection and was named to the All-MLB second team, signaling his emergence as one of baseball’s elite relievers.
This season, Miller has showcased remarkable talent and velocity, consistently challenging hitters with blazing fast pitches. His fastest delivery this year reached 104 mph, the highest recorded pitch speed in the MLB, achieved during a game against the Atlanta Braves. Miller’s statistics further highlight his impact: 19 saves, a 4.00 ERA, 57 strikeouts, and a 1.06 WHIP over 36 innings pitched. He has conceded just four home runs and 16 earned runs from 21 hits, underscoring his effectiveness on the mound.
Trade Rumors and the Athletics’ Unyielding Position
Despite the mounting interest from National League teams such as the New York Mets, Philadelphia Phillies, and Los Angeles Dodgers, the Athletics have made it clear that trading Mason Miller is off the table. Insider Bob Nightengale reported to USA Today that the Athletics have been direct in their refusal to consider any deal, dismissing the queries as futile efforts by other clubs looking to strengthen their chances at the trade deadline.
“Miller will not be traded under any circumstances, and these ballclubs were just wasting their time by contacting them for updates.” —Bob Nightengale, MLB Insider
Other sources, including Ken Rosenthal, have noted that competing clubs might attempt to entice Miller through promises of postseason contention. However, the Athletics’ firm stance reflects their hope that retaining Miller could be a cornerstone for eventual team improvement, even if it delays immediate rebuilding.
Implications of Holding Onto Mason Miller
The Athletics’ decision to keep Mason Miller highlights a tension between short-term pragmatism and long-term potential. While trading Miller could bring in valuable prospects to aid a rebuild, the Athletics appear to believe that his continuing development may eventually anchor the team’s return to competitiveness. This approach signals a commitment to building around young talent rather than accelerating a rebuild through trades at the deadline.
For contending teams vying to improve their pitching depth, Miller remains one of the most coveted players on the market, and his availability—or lack thereof—will significantly influence trade strategies as the deadline closes. For the Athletics and their fans, the hope remains that Miller’s evolution will eventually translate into a winning team, even if it means enduring current struggles.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Mason Miller a diabetic?
A. When Miller was 20, he found out he had Type 1 juvenile diabetes, and he fully supported it.