In a blockbuster move on July 31, 2025, the San Diego Padres acquired elite closer Mason Miller and left-handed starter J.P. Sears from the Oakland Athletics ahead of the MLB trade deadline. Miller, known for an average fastball of 101.1 mph (peaking at 104.1 mph), adds high-end strikeout ability and durability. This season, he’s posted 20 saves with a 3.76 ERA in 38 1/3 innings and remains under team control through 2028.
In return, the A’s received shortstop Leo (Leodalis) De Vries, MLB Pipeline’s No. 3 overall prospect, who has impressed in High‑A with advanced plate discipline and switch‑hitting skills. Joining him are three of San Diego’s other top pitching prospects: RHP Braden Nett (No. 3 overall in their system), Henry Báez (No. 13), and Eduarniel Núñez (No. 17).
For the Padres, this trade further cements their win-now posture—bolstering an already formidable bullpen. Miller provides another dominant weapon behind Robert Suárez and Jason Adam. Sears adds rotation depth and gives San Diego flexibility if they decide to move Dylan Cease or others before the deadline.
For Oakland, landing De Vries plus three pitching talents aligns with their longer-term rebuilding goals. With young middle‑infield pieces like Jacob Wilson and Tyler Soderstrom already in the pipeline, De Vries gives them another cornerstone to build toward 2027 and beyond.