Mason Miller has excelled in his first season as closer for the Oakland Athletics.
Miller, 25, has converted 13 of his first 15 save opportunities while striking out 57 batters in 32 2/3 innings.
He\'s under club control for five more years after 2024, which makes him a prime target for a contending team as the trade deadline approaches.
\"Relievers are tough to figure out and they can get hurt out of nowhere, not to mention the volatility of performance that tends to exist in that role,\" a National League executive said. \"He\'s a difference-maker for a playoff club, so there could be a good trade out there for them.\"
The A\'s are rebuilding, which means they\'ll likely at least consider moving Miller for a package of young players this summer.
An NL executive called it \"an unprecedented situation\" given Miller\'s impressive performance and lengthy club control.
\"I\'m sure they\'ll have to be blown away,\" the exec said.