Padres Manager Explains Mason Miller Decision After Crushing Loss

San Diego Padres manager Craig Stammen defended his decision to keep closer Mason Miller in the ninth inning of Game 2 against the Milwaukee Brewers, despite the closer's struggles. Miller, one of the best pitchers in MLB, entered the game in the eighth inning and quickly retired his opponents. However, he walked the bases loaded with two outs and ultimately surrendered a two-run single in the ninth to Jackson Chourio, giving the Brewers a 2-0 series lead heading back to San Diego.

Stammen explained that they had planned to use Miller for six outs, emphasizing his excellent performance throughout the season. He had struck out 129 batters in 70 innings pitched and posted an impressive 1.67 ERA. This season, Miller recorded an NL-leading 38 saves in 41 opportunities, but hadn't achieved a six-out save since his time with the Athletics in 2024.

Facing an uphill battle, the Padres will need to win three consecutive games to advance to the NLCS. Additionally, they may be without their best starter, Michael King, for the next two games as he recovers from his start in Game 2. While the Padres performed well against the Brewers at home during the second half of the season, sweeping them in a three-game series, they will need to perform at their best to extend this series to five games.

The team will look to begin their comeback in Game 3, scheduled for Tuesday at 9:30 p.m. ET/6:30 p.m. PT.