Even if the Padres Hold Onto Miller...

The Padres are in an unenviable spot right now. They have Mason Miller, the best closer in baseball, but at 50-53, having a good closer isn't a need for the club. With the team's farm system ranking last yet again and some bloated contracts that are only going to age with Manny Machado and Xander Bogaerts, it may be time to trade Miller. 

This season is lost in a tough National League, which would leave the team hoping for better fortunes in 2027. Unless the (expected) new ownership group is ready to pump up payroll, being competitive is going to be tricky. 

Miller is a big trade piece with lots of team control (free agent after the 2029 season), and that control will only dwindle the longer they hold onto him. Trading him now would give San Diego a couple of options. 

First, they could start to stockpile prospects yet again. Second, they could gather pieces for another run, opening the window by a little bit with a more complete roster. 

The new ownership group's appetite to spend next season could be the biggest factor, but San Diego should certainly be listening intently on Miller.