It’s far too soon to be making awards predictions for 2026, but that doesn’t stop them from happening right around this time of year. Anthony Castrovince of MLB.com made a range of early award predictions, and one of them had reliever Mason Miller of the San Diego Padres winning Reliever of the Year.
It’s not a bad prediction, even if it is premature. Miller has been a stud since he was acquired from the Athletics at the trade deadline, and the Padres rode his contributions, along with those of his fellow relievers, all the way to the Wild Card Series.
This year the Padres will be looking for more of the same from Miller, and he may even be taking on a larger role. Miller held opponents to a slugging percentage of just .494, which was the best in the game, and he’s been working on his slider to make it as much of a weapon as his fastball.
Miller’s other stats in 2025 included an ERA of 2.63 to go with 104 strikeouts in just 61-2/3 innings, and he also threw the fastest pitch in MLB at 104.1 mph. Throw in a WHIP of 0.91, and you’re talking about one of the most complete pitchers in the game, regardless of the role.
Also, it wouldn’t be a big jump for Miller to win this particular award. He’s already won Reliever of the Month twice, the first time for the then-Oakland A’s in April of 2024, then again last year with the Padres in September.
Another argument in favor of Miller winning Reliever of the Year is the talent around him. The Padres bullpen was a powerhouse last season, which allowed the team to pick and choose many of Miller’s appearances when it came to high-stress innings.
In fact, some of the competition for this reward could come from his own staff. Left-handed reliever Adrian Morejon is considered one of the best left handed relievers in baseball, and former Padres closer Robert Suarez will also compete for the award after signing with the Atlanta Braves. Then there’s former Mets closer Edwin Diaz, who will be finishing games for the reigning World Champion Los Angeles Dodgers.
Finally, there are the surprise candidates. There are always a few of those in this particular category, but it’s hard to bet against Miller going in, especially given his track record and the work he did in 2025.