San Diego Padres’ standout reliever Mason Miller will not participate in the crucial elimination game against the Milwaukee Brewers. He has been placed on Major League Baseball’s paternity list before Game 3 of the National League Division Series.
Miller’s absence is particularly impactful, leaving San Diego without one of their key bullpen contributors right before a decisive win-or-go-home matchup. The announcement of his paternity leave came a mere 45 minutes before the game began.
Under MLB’s postseason guidelines, Miller is allowed a maximum of three days off for paternity leave. To fill the gap left by Miller’s absence, the Padres added veteran left-handed pitcher Wandy Peralta to their active roster. Should San Diego prolong their season, Miller can resume his roster spot upon return.
The situation invites comparison with New York Yankees’ pitcher Max Fried. Despite expecting a child soon, Fried has opted to stay with his team to pitch in a critical Game 3, highlighting varying personal decisions during competitive postseason play.
In Game 2, Miller faced challenges. Tasked with a six-out save, he faltered with two outs and two strikes in the ninth inning, conceding a decisive two-run single to Milwaukee’s Jackson Chourio.
While Miller celebrates the birth of his child, San Diego fans might find it challenging to share the joy if the team’s playoff run ends without success.