Padres Turn to Michael King to Save NLDS Game 3
San Diego entered NLDS Game 3 needing a win but had to adjust when Mason Miller was absent for the birth of his child and Adrian Morejon was unavailable with a shoulder issue. Michael King, normally a starter, delivered two scoreless relief innings and earned the save in a 4-3 victory over Milwaukee. The win extended the Padres' season and set up Game 4, while King became the first MLB pitcher to start a postseason game and record a save of six or more outs within two days since saves became official.
San Diego needed a Game 3 win and lost two key relievers late. Mason Miller was with his wife for the birth of their first child, while Adrian Morejon could not pitch due to shoulder trouble. Manager Craig Stammen learned Miller might be unavailable only about an hour to 90 minutes before first pitch.
Michael King, usually a starter, answered with two scoreless innings and a save in a 4-3 win over Milwaukee. He threw 40 pitches two days after a 72-pitch start, becoming the first MLB pitcher since saves became official to start a postseason game and then earn a save of six or more outs within two days.
This outcome may resonate with fans who value adaptability and family priorities, as Miller's absence for childbirth and Morejon's injury forced unexpected roles. King's performance could reinforce appreciation for versatile athletes and deepen discussion about workload management in high-stakes games. It may also affect the Padres' momentum and fan engagement heading into Game 4, while highlighting how personal milestones and health issues can shape postseason narratives.