San Diego Padres closer Mason Miller has returned to the team after missing a three-game series against the St. Louis Cardinals due to a private family matter.
Miller, who leads the National League with 19 saves, was placed on the Bereavement/Medical Family Leave List earlier this week.
The Padres recalled left-handed pitcher Kyle Hart from Triple-A El Paso to fill his roster spot.
To make room for Miller's return, the team optioned rookie right-hander Bradgley Rodriguez to the Arizona Complex League for rest.
Manager Comments on Bullpen Depth
Padres manager Craig Stammen addressed the roster moves before the St. Louis series, noting the team's confidence in its bullpen depth.
“Mason’s got a personal matter he has to attend to, and he wants to keep it private,” Stammen said.
“We’re gonna miss him the next few days.”
Stammen emphasized the strength of the bullpen, saying, “It’s the beauty of having a real solid bullpen, where we’re still solid one through eight, and we really feel solid.”
He added that the team feels good about its pitching options, calling it a “one through 10, one through 12” group.
Regarding Rodriguez, Stammen explained the decision was strategic to give the young reliever rest during his first full MLB season.
“It’s something that we talked about as an organization,” Stammen said. “Some of our younger relievers, it’s going to be their first full season in the big leagues.
We wanted to be able to take care of them in the right way.”
He noted the team planned to use the bullpen heavily this year and needs to keep pitchers healthy for the end of the season.
Miller's Return and Future
Miller recorded a save in Saturday's game against the Texas Rangers and expressed gratitude for the support from teammates and staff.
“The guys are really supportive,” Miller said.
“The coaching staff, training staff, players in this locker room and everybody not only has my back, but everybody in this room has each others too.”
While away, Miller used private facilities to maintain his throwing routine. “I have resources at home, some facilities there,” he said.
“Just tried to stay ready and not come back unprepared, because that’s not fair to anybody here.”
Miller has three years of arbitration eligibility remaining and has previously expressed interest in a long-term extension.
He said no formal discussions have taken place, but noted the team has him for three more years, providing comfort.
