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.

San Diego Padres general manager A.J. Preller reveals the strategy he used to land Mason Miller from the Athletics.

San Diego president of baseball operations A.J. Preller made a huge push for Miller, as is his wont, and the A’s viewed the Mets as the “most serious” option beyond the Padres, per The Athletic. The Mets and A’s reportedly had “very serious” conversation, but the sides did not gain traction and the Amazin’s pivoted in different directions.