The San Diego Padres landed Mason Miller from the Athletics in a deadline blockbuster, which also included JP Sears and infield prospect Leo De Vries. But the deal wasn't the Athletics' first choice for a potential Miller trade.

Mason Miller is right in the middle of the National League wild-card race as a member of the San Diego Padres, but he was reportedly almost part of the same race with a different team.

The San Diego Padres acquired All-Star closer Mason Miller and starting pitcher JP Sears through a trade with the Athletics, the teams announced Thursday.