With just over a month until the July 30 MLB trade deadline, speculation continues to swirl around Oakland Athletics star closer Mason Miller.
The right-hander is in the midst of a breakout year, having posted a 2.14 ERA with 59 strikeouts and 13 saves over 33.2 innings pitched (27 games).
The Athletics own one of the worst records in baseball and reportedly have been listening to trade offers for Miller.
However, the asking price is said to be astronomical, via Mark Feinsand of MLB.com:
“The return would be massive,” an American League executive said. “You could potentially backfill your system with some solid talent. There is health risk there for any team acquiring him – and therefore risk to hold him long-term. Without contending anytime soon, I think they shop but might not sell.”
In addition to his performance on the mound, Mason is intriguing to teams due to being under control through the 2029 season. Because of this, the Athletics will only move him if they are presented with an offer they can’t refuse:
An NL executive called it “an unprecedented situation” given Miller’s impressive performance and lengthy club control.
“I’m sure they’ll have to be blown away,” the exec said.
Miller would bolster any bullpen, but it remains to be seen if a team will meet the Athletics’ high asking price.
The 25-year-old is one of the most dominant relief pitchers in baseball with a fastball that tops out at nearly 104 mph. That, coupled with his results and team control, will make him one of the most coveted players in the weeks ahead.
Will Dodgers pursue Mason Miller?
While the Dodgers would benefit from another big arm in their bullpen, president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman has historically shied away from spending too many assets on a relief pitcher.
While it’s possible the Dodgers will add to their bullpen in some way, the team appears more focused on bolstering the bottom of their lineup.
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