Padres deploy closer Mason Miller in eighth inning of NLDS Game 2

San Diego trails Milwaukee 1-0 in the best-of-five series.

Wire Report IntelligenceUpdated 32m1 min read

Mason Miller is in the game in the 8th 😤 📺: FS! https://t.co/iUxOFk6pYr Via @MLBONFOX on X

What happened: San Diego brought Mason Miller into Sunday's National League Division Series contest ahead of his customary ninth-inning window. The right-hander took the mound for the eighth inning to navigate a critical road spot against the Milwaukee Brewers.

Why it matters: The early deployment underscores the urgency for the Padres as the club attempts to avoid falling into a 2-0 deficit. The appearance marks a usage shift for Mason Miller, who has operated primarily as a traditional one-inning closer since joining the active roster in June.

By the numbers: Miller pitched exclusively in the ninth inning during the wild-card sweep of the Chicago Cubs, striking out two batters to record his first career postseason save.

What to watch: The series shifts to San Diego for Game 3 following the conclusion of Sunday's contest.

Sources

@MLBONFOX 2026-10-04T22:55:30.241637+00:00

CONVERSATION

Loading comments…

MLBBreakingMason Miller

Follow MLB Intelligence

Real-time signals and analysis

@WireReportMLB

WR Pro

The day's sports, briefed to your inbox at 7am ET. Every claim sourced.

$9/month Free weekly newsletter →