Latest Mason Miller update could force Team USA to choose new WBC closer

Mason Miller could be a game-time decision for the championship game of the World Baseball Classic on March 17.

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The San Diego Padres’ closer, who hasn’t allowed a run while recording two saves in four WBC appearances, will only be available to Team USA manager Mark DeRosa if Padres manager Craig Stammen allows it.

Dennis Lin and Maria Torres of The Athletic were first to report Monday that “a decision will be made on (Miller’s) availability for Tuesday’s WBC finale depending on how he feels ahead of the game.”

Team USA closer Mason Miller is thought likely to be unavailable for the finals Tuesday @Ken_Rosenthal 1st mentioned @WBCBaseball

— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) March 16, 2026

Exactly when DeRosa will find out if Miller is available remains to be determined, but it figures to be a hot topic during the manager’s pregame media scrum.

The United States will play the winner of the March 16 semifinal between Venezuela and Italy for the championship.

Miller, whose 100-mph fastball has resulted in 10 strikeouts and no hits allowed in four scoreless innings, would be DeRosa’s top choice to close again.

If Miller can’t go, DeRosa can choose from David Bednar (New York Yankees), Garrett Whitlock (Boston Red Sox) or Griffin Jax (Tampa Bay Rays).

Bednar and Whitlock have some experience closing for their current teams. Jax does not, but he went 10-for-16 in save situations for the Minnesota Twins in 2024.