"Midwife told me we won": San Diego Padres' elite closer who stayed by his wife's side during delivery makes surprise return to the mound just one day later! Teammates all welcome him back with open arms

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San Diego Padres' "elite closer" Mason Miller (28) made a swift return to the mound just one day after embracing the joy of becoming a father. Returning with the strong support of his teammates, Miller is aiming squarely at making an impact on the crucial postseason stage.

According to MLB.com and other sources, the San Diego organization officially announced on the 8th (Korean time) that it had reinstated Miller from the paternity leave list ahead of Game 4 of the National League Division Series (NLDS) against the Milwaukee Brewers. Miller was properly registered on the Game 4 roster and is immediately eligible to pitch starting with that game. San Diego manager Craig Stammen also confirmed the closer's return to reporters before the game, stating, "Miller is available to play today."

This season, Miller has been evaluated as a "top-tier" closer in Major League Baseball. He recorded an impressive 5 wins, 2 losses, 38 saves, and a 1.67 ERA across 66 regular-season games. He demonstrated exceptional stability, blowing only three of his 41 save opportunities.

However, there were some regrets entering the postseason. In Game 2 of the NLDS against the Milwaukee Brewers on the 5th, Miller pitched 1⅔ innings, allowing one hit, three walks, and two runs, resulting in a painful blown save. San Diego, which had been pushed to the brink, staged a dramatic comeback by securing a thrilling one-run 4-3 victory in Game 3 on the 7th while Miller was away on paternity leave.

According to MLB.com, Miller could not watch Game 3 on the 7th directly because he was staying by his wife's side during her delivery. The path through which he learned of the team's precious victory was somewhat unexpected: the midwife who assisted with the birth turned out to be a passionate San Diego fan.

Looking back on the moment, Miller said, "I found out through the midwife that our team had won right after the game ended," adding, "As soon as I heard the news, I asked, 'Who got the save? Was it Mohr?'" He shared this lighthearted behind-the-scenes detail. Even in the tense delivery room, he remained concerned about the team's bullpen, displaying the unmistakable demeanor of a core closer.

The San Diego locker room did not hesitate to offer warm welcomes and congratulations for Miller's brief absence and the birth of his child. Star hitter Fernando Tatis Jr. said, "We filled his void and provided solid support behind him. Miller is always a player who delivers impressive performances for the team," adding, "Right now, it is right for him to spend time fully with his family," offering full support.

Tay France, who had also taken paternity leave last September, empathized deeply, stating, "I know well how difficult it is to balance work and family," while adding, "But Miller did the most correct thing he needed to do right now."

Manager Stammen also offered blessings, saying, "Everyone's situation and perspective may be different. But the most important thing is the birth of a healthy baby and for parents to fully enjoy that special moment," adding, "Both births this October were handled beautifully, with the parents guarding those moments perfectly."

Miller has returned after experiencing the most special moment of his life with his family. With the team having reversed the series momentum through its Game 3 victory, curiosity is piqued as to what kind of dominant pitching Miller will deliver on the mound in Game 4, supported by his teammates' passionate backing, to shake off the regrets of Game 2 and lock down the back end of the lineup.

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*This content was translated by AI.View Original