With two vacancies on their pitching staff, the Athletics can start to take a look at the next generation of pitchers.

The San Diego Padres acquired right-hander Mason Miller, the top closer on the trade market, and lefty starter J.P. Sears from the Athletics on Thursday. They are paying a big price, however, sending shortstop Leo De Vries,

The A’s beat the Mariners on Wednesday night. They had a two-run lead in the ninth inning, which is a typical save situation, but they did not use their closer. Mason Miller was unavailable, and on Thursday we found out why;