Teams Intensify Pursuit of Elite MLB Closers

As the MLB trade deadline nears, multiple teams—including the Padres, Yankees, Phillies, and Mets—are aggressively pursuing elite high-leverage relievers, with Oakland Athletics closer Mason Miller drawing particular attention. The Athletics are demanding top young pitching prospects for Miller and have shown little urgency to move him unless their high asking price is met. The Padres may need to part with their two best prospects to land Miller, while other teams remain reluctant to trade their top assets. Separately, the Phillies are finalizing a blockbuster trade to acquire Minnesota Twins closer Jhoan Duran for prospects Mick Abel and Eduardo Tait. The market for elite closers is proving costly, with contenders weighing the value of long-term control versus immediate impact. The final hours before the deadline are expected to bring aggressive moves as teams seek to strengthen their bullpens.