Full Breakdown
Mason Miller Returns to the Padres Bullpen for NLDS Game 4
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event: Activation Ahead of a Do-Or-Die Game
On October 7, the San Diego Padres activated All-Star closer Mason Miller from the paternity list just hours before the start of Game 4 of the National League Division Series against the Milwaukee Brewers. Miller, who had missed the previous game to be present for the birth of his first child, replaced left-hander Wandy Peralta on the roster. The Brewers lead the best-of-five series 2-1, putting the Padres on the brink of elimination at Petco Park.
Background & Context
Miller’s absence began on the day of Game 3, when the Padres placed him on the paternity list an hour before the contest. In his stead, starter Michael King closed the game with two shutout innings, helping San Diego eke out a 4-3 win that kept the series alive. Earlier, Miller had blown a six-out save in Game 2, surrendering a two-run single to Jackson Chourio that gave Milwaukee a 4-3 victory. The Padres’ bullpen also lost setup man Adrian Morejón to shoulder “stickiness,” leaving the relief corps stretched thin heading into the decisive matchup.
Data & Statistics
- Regular-season performance: Miller recorded 38 saves in 41 opportunities, posted a 0.90 WHIP and struck out 129 batters over 70 innings.
- Postseason numbers: He entered the postseason 0-1 with one save and a 6.75 ERA in two appearances.
- Series status: Brewers lead 2-1; a win for San Diego is required to avoid elimination.
- Pitching staff: Walker Buehler (9-6 regular-season record, 4.83 ERA) is slated to start Game 4; Michael King remains available for relief work.
Official Statements & Responses
He emphasized the club’s willingness to use any available arms, noting, “We’re at that point in the season where it’s everybody, whatever they can give us, we’re going to use.” Stammen also highlighted the personal dimension of the situation, stating that the organization supports players’ family needs and that “everybody has a different situation, a different way of looking at it, a different expectation.” Miller himself expressed joy at being present for his son’s birth, describing the moment as “pretty amazing.”
Verbatim Quotes
- “I said, ‘No, I can’t do that,’” — Mason Miller
- “I was just so happy to be there,” — Mason Miller
- “Obviously, Game 2 (was) not what I had hoped for or planned on,” — Mason Miller
- “We're at that point in the season where it's everybody, whatever they can give us, we're going to use,” — Craig Stammen, manager
- “Everybody has a different situation, a different way of looking at it, a different expectation,” — Craig Stammen, manager
- “I think that everybody out there wants to contribute,” — Michael King
What’s Next
Game 4 will determine whether the Padres can extend the series. If Miller is called upon, he will be tasked with preserving a lead or keeping the game within reach for a late-inning rally. The availability of Adrian Morejón will be confirmed later on the day of the game, after he completes a catch session and receives medical clearance. The outcome of the game will decide if the Padres force a decisive Game 5 or see their postseason run end.