Athletics closer Mason Miller was “unavailable tonight,” according to manager Mark Kotsay, who also said the decision was not injury-related. The A’s held a 5-3 lead over the Mariners entering the ninth inning at Sutter Health Park tonight and elected to stick with rookie Jack Perkins rather than go to the flamethrowing closer Miller, who hasn’t pitched since Saturday. The heavy implication is that a trade may be in the works for Miller, who is known to be of interest to the Padres and Yankees among others.
The Mets and Phillies were linked to Miller earlier today. The Phillies have since acquired Jhoan Duran from the Twins, while the Mets subsequently added Tyler Rogers and Ryan Helsley (plus Gregory Soto five days ago). The list of potential suitors for Miller is likely extensive, though the young talent required to get him will be significant.
More to come…