With the July 31 MLB trade deadline looming, both the New York Yankees and New York Mets are actively seeking bullpen reinforcements, and Athletics closer Mason Miller has emerged as a potential target. Both teams are focused on acquiring impact relievers to strengthen their pitching staff for the remainder of the season, with the Mets recently acquiring Gregory Soto and the Yankees linked to several relievers, including Pirates closer David Bednar. The interest in Miller highlights the urgency from New York clubs to bolster their bullpens.

Mason Miller has been a revelation this season, boasting a 1-2 record with a 3.76 ERA and a 1.017 WHIP. He has recorded 20 saves with 59 strikeouts against 18 walks, while consistently firing fastballs that average 101.2 MPH and reaching speeds as high as 104.4 MPH — the highest in Major League Baseball this year.

Market Impact and Team Discussions Around Miller

Joel Sherman, an MLB insider from the New York Post, reported that Miller’s name has been part of trade conversations this week, indicating that the Athletics are willing to entertain offers. Sherman emphasized the potential of Miller to “really shake up the market,” especially as the relief pitching sector heats up with several teams, including the Yankees and Mets, in pursuit of high-end bullpen arms. He also noted that the Athletics are in a rebuilding phase, preparing for their move to Las Vegas and focusing on the future.

Challenges in Meeting the Athletics’ Asking Price

Despite Miller’s talent and impact potential, Sherman cautions that acquiring him will not come cheaply. There has been no shortage of trade rumors surrounding Miller’s future ever since his breakout first half in 2024, but the Athletics’ desire for top-tier prospects could make a deal difficult for either New York team to finalize. Sherman stated,

“The one thing I’ve heard is it’s going to take a top 25 in the sport prospect at the front of a trade package,”

adding,

“That does not feel like something the Mets or Yankees would do for a relief pitcher. Would anyone do it for a relief pitcher? Even a guy who averages 101-plus? Maybe. Everyone is out there looking for it, so who knows.”

Miller’s Contract Situation and Possible Future as a Starter

Mason Miller remains under team control through arbitration until 2029, giving the Athletics leverage as they decide his role moving forward. There has been speculation over the past year about transitioning Miller from a reliever to a starting pitcher, a move that has proven successful for others, such as Garrett Crochet and Clay Holmes. Holmes, a former Yankees closer, has adapted well to a starting role with the Mets, providing a potential blueprint for Miller’s development. Both New York clubs may consider giving up a significant prospect due to Miller’s potential upside not just as a reliever but as a future frontline starter.

The Stakes for Yankees and Mets in the Trade Market

Both the Yankees and Mets seem aware that acquiring Miller could be transformative for their pitching staff, but the steep asking price places pressure on decision-makers to weigh the short-term bullpen boost versus the long-term cost in prospects. With the Athletics eager to build toward their future in Las Vegas, Miller’s trade value is likely to remain high. How either New York club approaches this opportunity in the final hours before the deadline will be crucial to their chances at postseason success.