Mets Came Close To Mason Miller Trade; Rejected Athletics' Asking Price

San Diego Padres pitcher Mason Miller pitches during 2025 game.

The New York Mets came close to landing one of the biggest prizes at the 2025 MLB trade deadline, flamethrowing reliever Mason Miller, but ultimately watched the San Diego Padres outbid them in a blockbuster. 

According to Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic, the Athletics viewed the Mets as the most serious contender outside of San Diego, with talks described as “very serious” and “substantial.”

A Deal That Never Came Together

While the Athletics eventually sent Miller to the Padres for a massive prospect haul headlined by No. 3 overall prospect Leo De Vries, the Mets weren't far behind. They reportedly refused to part with top pitching prospects Jonah Tong, Nolan McLean, Brandon Sproat, or Jett Williams, players seen as core to New York’s long-term plans. 

Instead, GM David Stearns pivoted and bolstered the bullpen by acquiring Gregory Soto, Tyler Rogers, and Ryan Helsley, three experienced arms with complementary skill sets.

Mets Opted for Depth Over Splash

The decision not to match San Diego’s offer may pay off down the line, as the Mets preserved their prospect capital while still improving their bullpen. Though Miller’s 100+ mph heat and 20 saves with the Athletics made him an enticing option, New York now boasts a more balanced relief corps without compromising its future.

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