San Diego, California — Padres General Manager A.J. Preller has solidified his reputation for audacity by orchestrating a major trade just ahead of the MLB trade deadline. In a surprising move, the Padres shipped one of their top prospects, Leo De Vries, along with three other pitchers to the Oakland Athletics in exchange for all-star closer Mason Miller and veteran starter JP Sears.

De Vries, an 18-year-old shortstop, ranks fifth on the Baseball America top 100 prospects list and is the highest-rated player traded since Eloy Jimenez’s deal in 2017. Jimenez, then also ranked No. 5, was a pivotal figure in a trade that sent Jose Quintana to the Cubs. The only comparable trades involving top-10 prospects from previous July deadlines include 2014’s Addison Russell and Jimenez.

The deal is particularly noteworthy as it marks De Vries’s entrance into the elite ranks of traded prospects. Scouts have hailed him as a potential all-star, but there are hurdles he must overcome to reach that level. Defensively, he is praised as a natural shortstop, showcasing fluid movement and control.

This season, De Vries has made strides at High-A Fort Wayne, batting .244 with seven home runs over 79 games. His ability to hit from both sides of the plate and show advanced plate discipline is promising, although he is still developing his power game.

In addition to De Vries, the Padres sent Braden Nett, Eduarniel Nuñez, and Henry Báez to the A’s. Nett, who ranked as San Diego’s seventh prospect, has gained attention for his impressive strikeout rate this season. The right-hander has displayed a five-pitch arsenal that includes a fastball reaching up to 98 mph.

Nuñez debuted in the majors earlier this month and offers a potent fastball that can touch 100 mph. Despite command issues, he has shown flashes of high-leverage potential. Meanwhile, Báez, a 22-year-old righty, has impressed with his striking velocity improvements since joining the organization.

In return, the Padres acquired Miller, who boasts an electrifying fastball consistently clocking between 98 and 101 mph. After transitioning from a starter to a closer, he has emerged as one of the most formidable back-end pitchers in the league.

Sears, known for his consistency, has been a reliable presence for the Athletics, compiling more than 170 innings in each of the last two seasons. His pitching repertoire includes a four-seam fastball complemented by secondary pitches that leverage his compelling command.

By acquiring Miller and Sears, the Padres aim to bolster their roster with proven talents, particularly as they seek to enhance their bullpen and starting rotation opportunities. With the trade deadline upon them, San Diego has made a bold statement, signaling both a desire to compete now and a commitment to their long-term vision.