MLB exec believes trade offer for Miller would have to ‘surprise the Athletics.’ Originally published on NBC Sports Bay Area
With the MLB trade deadline approaching next month, Athletics closer Mason Miller is the subject of continued speculation that Oakland could trade the talented relief pitcher.
While many championship-contending teams would certainly like to add Miller to their bullpen, it would take a significant amount of money for the Athletics to consider keeping their star closer.
MLB’s Mark Feinsand spoke with an anonymous MLB executive, who said Oakland would be “surprised” by any offer for Miller.
Not only is Miller performing at an elite level, but the Athletics’ 25-year-old closer has club control for five more seasons beyond the 2024 MLB season, making him even more valuable in potential trade negotiations.
National League executives have detailed the precarious position Oakland is in of not wanting to let Miller go, but at the same time understanding that his value is never going to get any higher.
“it’s difficult [for Oakland] Because he’s one plus [service time player]”He’s had some recent injuries,” a National League executive told Feinsand, “and on the one hand, if you want to win a championship in the near future, you’ve got to build your team around him. On the other hand, his value is not going to be much higher.”
Another NL decision maker detailed how having Miller have franchise control for five more seasons would give the A’s a lot of leverage if they were to discuss a deal for the fiery right-hander.
“Miller has five years remaining on his contract beyond 2024, so Oakland has the luxury of being able to wait until they receive what they believe is the best offer for the remainder of his contract,” a National League decision-maker told Feinsand. “This gives Oakland incredible leverage with any team currently seeking to trade for Miller.”
Miller recorded his 14th save of the 2024 MLB season in Friday night’s game between the Athletics and the Minnesota Twins at the Coliseum, adding to his already illustrious resume and drawing attention from championship-contender teams looking to bolster their bullpens.
The 25-year-old entered Friday’s game with a 2.14 ERA, having struck out an astounding 59 batters in 33.2 innings pitched this season.
Oakland maintains plenty of leverage in trade talks for its star closer, and if the team has any hope of prying Miller away from the team anytime soon, they’ll need to make an offer the Athletics brass can’t refuse.
