Brad Miller (baseball)

{{Infobox baseball biography

|name = Brad Miller

|image = Brad Miller (27315839503).jpg

|caption = Miller with the Tampa Bay Rays

|team = Free agent

|number =

|position = Utility player

|birth_date = {{birth date and age|1989|10|18}}

|birth_place = Orlando, Florida, U.S.

|bats = Left

|throws = Right

|debutleague = MLB

|debutdate = June 28

|debutyear = 2013

|debutteam = Seattle Mariners

|statyear = 2023 season

|statleague = MLB

|stat1label = Batting average

|stat1value = .236

|stat2label = Home runs

|stat2value = 123

|stat3label = Runs batted in

|stat3value = 405

|teams =

Seattle Mariners ({{mlby|2013}}–{{mlby|2015}})
Tampa Bay Rays ({{mlby|2016}}–{{mlby|2018}})
Milwaukee Brewers ({{mlby|2018}})
Cleveland Indians ({{mlby|2019}})
Philadelphia Phillies ({{mlby|2019}})
St. Louis Cardinals ({{mlby|2020}})
Philadelphia Phillies ({{mlby|2021}})
Texas Rangers ({{mlby|2022}}–{{mlby|2023}})

}}

Bradley Austin Miller (born October 18, 1989) is an American professional baseball utility player who is a free agent. He has previously played in Major League Baseball (MLB) for the Seattle Mariners, Tampa Bay Rays, Milwaukee Brewers, Cleveland Indians, Philadelphia Phillies, St. Louis Cardinals, and Texas Rangers.

Miller grew up playing Little League baseball in Windermere, Florida, before attending Olympia High School, where he served as the team's shortstop. Although the Texas Rangers selected him in the 2008 MLB Draft, Miller chose to play college baseball for the Clemson Tigers. As a junior in 2011, he won the Brooks Wallace Award, given annually to the best shortstop in college baseball. Miller was also named twice to the United States national collegiate baseball team, including appearances at the 2009 World Baseball Challenge and the 2010 World University Baseball Championship.

The Mariners selected Miller in the second round of the 2011 MLB Draft, and he quickly rose through the Seattle farm system, making his major league debut in 2013. Throughout the 2014 season, Miller was in competition with several other Mariners for the role of starting shortstop, and by May 2015, he was being utilized as a "super utility" player, similar to Ben Zobrist. Miller was traded to the Rays prior to the 2016 season, where he was used first as the starting shortstop, then as the starting first baseman, and finally as the starting second baseman. After a banner 2016 season in which he hit 30 home runs, a series of injuries derailed Miller's next two seasons, and he was traded to the Brewers in 2018. Miller spent only one month within the Brewers organization before he was released. He then underwent microfracture surgery to repair a torn hip labrum.

Miller spent the 2019 season with a number of teams. He opted out of a minor league contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers, and made a brief appearance with the Indians before he was designated for assignment. After Miller spent some time with the Yankees' Triple A team, the Phillies signed him to take over as their utility player after Jay Bruce became their starting left fielder. Miller spent 2020 with the Cardinals before returning to the Phillies the following year.

Early life

Miller was born on October 18, 1989, in Orlando, Florida, and grew up in Windermere.{{cite web |title=Brad Miller Stats, Fantasy & News |url=https://www.mlb.com/player/brad-miller-543543 |website=MLB.com |publisher=Major League Baseball |access-date=May 25, 2021 |archive-date=July 22, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190722040656/https://www.mlb.com/player/brad-miller-543543 |url-status=live }}{{cite news |last1=Hochman |first1=Benjamin |title=Hochman: Who's up fourth? Yep, Brad Miller, of all players, has assumed the cleanup spot for the Cardinals |url=https://www.stltoday.com/sports/columns/benjamin-hochman/hochman-whos-up-fourth-yep-brad-miller-of-all-players-has-assumed-the-cleanup-spot/article_3a066f15-1da9-5c58-9a6a-c7b9c4814221.html |access-date=May 25, 2021 |work=St. Louis Post-Dispatch |date=September 20, 2020 |archive-date=May 26, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210526010851/https://www.stltoday.com/sports/columns/benjamin-hochman/hochman-whos-up-fourth-yep-brad-miller-of-all-players-has-assumed-the-cleanup-spot/article_3a066f15-1da9-5c58-9a6a-c7b9c4814221.html |url-status=live }} He began playing Little League baseball with a Windermere club and was childhood friends with future Major League Baseball (MLB) second baseman Nick Franklin.{{cite news |last1=Ryzewski |first1=Steven |title=After decades of volunteering, Debbie Dobbs steps down from local Little League post |url=https://www.orangeobserver.com/article/after-decades-of-volunteering-debbie-dobbs-steps-down-from-local-little-league-post |access-date=May 25, 2021 |work=West Orange Times & Observer |date=July 20, 2018 |archive-date=May 26, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210526022449/https://www.orangeobserver.com/article/after-decades-of-volunteering-debbie-dobbs-steps-down-from-local-little-league-post |url-status=live }}{{cite news |last1=Sonnone |first1=Brendan |title=Infielders Brad Miller, Nick Franklin bring Central Florida flair to Mariners |url=https://www.orlandosentinel.com/sports/os-xpm-2013-08-17-os-hs-mariners-brad-miller-nick-franklin-20130817-story.html |access-date=May 25, 2021 |work=Orlando Sentinel |date=August 17, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191213132616/https://www.orlandosentinel.com/sports/os-xpm-2013-08-17-os-hs-mariners-brad-miller-nick-franklin-20130817-story.html |archive-date=December 13, 2019}} Miller's father, Steve, played college baseball for the Northern Iowa Panthers and served as his son's baseball coach from Little League to the beginning of high school.{{cite news |last1=Johns |first1=Greg |title=Baseball is a Miller family staple |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/mariners-brad-miller-appreciates-fathers-influence/c-131097768 |access-date=May 25, 2021 |work=MLB.com |publisher=Major League Baseball |date=June 19, 2015 |archive-date=May 26, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210526010850/https://www.mlb.com/news/mariners-brad-miller-appreciates-fathers-influence/c-131097768 |url-status=live }}

Miller attended Olympia High School in Orlando, serving as the team's shortstop.{{cite news |last1=Rosiak |first1=Todd |title=Get To Know Q&A: Brad Miller is happy to bring his versatility to the Brewers |url=https://www.jsonline.com/story/sports/mlb/brewers/2018/07/03/get-know-q-brad-miller-happy-bring-his-versatility-brewers/752587002/ |access-date=May 25, 2021 |work=Milwaukee Journal Sentinel |date=July 3, 2018 |archive-date=May 27, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210527233348/https://www.jsonline.com/story/sports/mlb/brewers/2018/07/03/get-know-q-brad-miller-happy-bring-his-versatility-brewers/752587002/ |url-status=live }} As a sophomore in high school, Miller was invited to join retired MLB player Chet Lemon's summer Amateur Athletic Union team, "Juice".{{cite news |last1=Baker |first1=Geoff |title=Mariners shortstop Brad Miller "a coach's dream" |url=https://www.seattletimes.com/sports/mariners/mariners-shortstop-brad-miller-ldquoa-coachrsquos-dreamrdquo/ |access-date=May 25, 2021 |work=The Seattle Times |date=August 12, 2013 |archive-date=May 26, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210526011906/https://www.seattletimes.com/sports/mariners/mariners-shortstop-brad-miller-ldquoa-coachrsquos-dreamrdquo/ |url-status=live }} As a junior, Miller had a .420 batting average for Olympia, with a .560 on base percentage, six home runs, and 31 runs batted in (RBIs), and was named the team's Most Valuable Player.{{cite news |title=Clemson baseball signs 12 players in fall period |url=https://clemson.rivals.com/news/clemson-baseball-signs-12-players-in-fall-period |access-date=May 25, 2021 |work=Tiger Illustrated |date=December 16, 2007 |archive-date=May 26, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210526011905/https://clemson.rivals.com/news/clemson-baseball-signs-12-players-in-fall-period |url-status=live }}

College career

The Texas Rangers selected Miller in the 39th round of the 2008 MLB Draft, but he elected to attend Clemson University on a full college baseball scholarship.{{cite news |title=Brad Miller and Trevor Siemian Inducted into the Metro Hall of Fame |url=https://olympiahighschoolathletics.com/2017/05/11/brad-miller-and-trevor-siemian-inducted-into-the-metro-hall-of-fame/ |access-date=May 25, 2021 |work=Olympia High School Athletics |date=May 11, 2017 |archive-date=May 26, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210526013826/https://olympiahighschoolathletics.com/2017/05/11/brad-miller-and-trevor-siemian-inducted-into-the-metro-hall-of-fame/ |url-status=live }} As a freshman at Clemson in 2009, Miller started all 66 games for the Tigers at shortstop.{{cite web |title=Brad Miller, Clemson Baseball, Infielder |url=https://www.tigernet.com/clemson-baseball/player/brad-miller-23 |website=TigerNet |access-date=May 27, 2021 |archive-date=April 24, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170424232203/http://www.tigernet.com/clemson-baseball/player/Brad-Miller-23 |url-status=live }} His first collegiate home run came on February 22, 2009, in a 6–5 extra innings victory over Charlotte.{{cite news |title=#19 Clemson Rallies For 6–5 Win in 10 Innings to Complete Sweep of Charlotte |url=https://www.tigernet.com/clemson-baseball/story/19-clemson-rallies-for-6-5-win-in-10-innings-to-complete-sweep-of-charlotte-7746 |access-date=May 27, 2021 |work=TigerNet |date=February 22, 2009 |archive-date=May 27, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210527233322/https://www.tigernet.com/clemson-baseball/story/19-clemson-rallies-for-6-5-win-in-10-innings-to-complete-sweep-of-charlotte-7746 |url-status=live }} As a sophomore in 2010, Miller led Clemson with a .357 batting average. He also had eight home runs, a .458 on-base percentage, and nine stolen bases in 69 games.{{cite news |title=Bradley, Miller make USA collegiate roster |url=https://www.postandcourier.com/sports/bradley-miller-make-usa-collegiate-roster/article_6fdd2f07-e3e2-5d47-aff6-4666fa052796.html |access-date=May 27, 2021 |work=The Post and Courier |date=July 12, 2010 |archive-date=May 27, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210527233337/https://www.postandcourier.com/sports/bradley-miller-make-usa-collegiate-roster/article_6fdd2f07-e3e2-5d47-aff6-4666fa052796.html |url-status=live }} That same year, he helped take Clemson to the semifinal rounds of the 2010 College World Series, where they eventually fell to the University of South Carolina.{{cite news |title=South Carolina Advances to CWS Finals With 4–3 Win Over Clemson |url=https://gamecocksonline.com/news/2010/6/26/South_Carolina_Advances_to_CWS_Finals_With_4_3_Win_Over_Clemson.aspx |access-date=May 27, 2021 |work=gamecocksonline.com |publisher=South Carolina Gamecocks |date=June 26, 2010 |archive-date=May 27, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210527233355/https://gamecocksonline.com/news/2010/6/26/South_Carolina_Advances_to_CWS_Finals_With_4_3_Win_Over_Clemson.aspx |url-status=live }}

As a junior in the 2011 season, Miller led the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) with a .395 batting average and a .498 on-base percentage. Additionally, he recorded 11 doubles, three triples, five home runs, 50 RBIs, 53 runs, and 21 stolen bases in 56 games for Clemson, 54 of which were starts. At the end of the year, Miller received the Brooks Wallace Award, given to the best college baseball shortstop that season.{{cite news |title=Brad Miller Wins Brooks Wallace Shortstop-of-the-Year Award |url=https://www.live5news.com/story/15023041/brad-miller-wins-brooks-wallace-shortstop-of-the-year-award/ |access-date=May 27, 2021 |work=WCSC-TV |date=July 4, 2011 |archive-date=November 30, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181130071600/http://www.live5news.com/story/15023041/brad-miller-wins-brooks-wallace-shortstop-of-the-year-award/ |url-status=live }} Miller was also named the 2011 ACC Player of the Year and was a Louisville Slugger First-Team All-American as named by Collegiate Baseball.{{cite news |title=Clemson's Brad Miller is first team All-American |url=https://www.live5news.com/story/14827705/clemson-baseball-has-its-first-first-team-all-american-since-2006/ |access-date=May 27, 2021 |work=WCSC-TV |date=June 2, 2011 |archive-date=December 15, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191215233006/https://www.live5news.com/story/14827705/clemson-baseball-has-its-first-first-team-all-american-since-2006/ |url-status=live }} Clemson once again reached the college baseball postseason but was eliminated by Connecticut during the regional rounds.{{cite news |last1=Bernstein |first1=Viv |title=South Carolina Prevails, Putting UConn Under Familiar N.C.A.A. Pressure |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2011/06/12/sports/baseball/college-world-series-virginia-south-carolina-connecticut.html |access-date=May 27, 2021 |work=The New York Times |date=June 11, 2011 |archive-date=April 19, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170419085652/http://www.nytimes.com/2011/06/12/sports/baseball/college-world-series-virginia-south-carolina-connecticut.html |url-status=live }}

In both 2009 and 2010, Miller was named to USA Baseball's Collegiate National Team. He helped lead the team to an overall 19–5 record and a World Baseball Challenge title.{{cite news |title=KSU's Martini Invited To 2010 Collegiate National Team Trials |url=http://www.wibw.com/sports/headlines/97612514.html?ref=514 |access-date=May 27, 2021 |work=WIBW-TV |date=July 1, 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151118185312/http://www.wibw.com/sports/headlines/97612514.html?ref=514 |archive-date=November 18, 2015}} Starting in 15 of 23 games for Team USA in 2009, Miller collected 14 hits, 13 runs, and eight RBIs.{{cite news |title=Fontana & Johnson Named To 2010 USA Baseball Collegiate National Team |url=https://floridagators.com/news/2010/7/12/18392.aspx |access-date=May 27, 2021 |work=floridagators.com |publisher=University of Florida Athletics |date=July 12, 2010 |archive-date=May 27, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210527233333/https://floridagators.com/news/2010/7/12/18392.aspx |url-status=live }} Miller joined the Collegiate National Team again in 2010, when Team USA lost to Cuba in the gold medal match of the 2010 World University Baseball Championship.{{cite news |last1=MacRae |first1=Robert |title=Miller Motivated to Return to Omaha |url=https://theclemsoninsider.com/2010/09/17/miller-motivated-to-return-to-omaha/ |access-date=May 27, 2021 |work=The Clemson Insider |date=September 17, 2010 |archive-date=October 22, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201022012806/https://theclemsoninsider.com/2010/09/17/miller-motivated-to-return-to-omaha/ |url-status=live }}

Professional career

=Draft and minor leagues (2011–2013)=

The Seattle Mariners selected Miller in the second round, 62nd overall, in the 2011 MLB Draft, and he signed with the team that August.{{cite news |title=Two Clemson players taken in MLB draft |url=https://www.postandcourier.com/sports/two-clemson-players-taken-in-mlb-draft/article_d1f5796f-babb-5707-8866-3436ad8cb760.html |access-date=May 15, 2021 |work=The Post and Courier |date=June 6, 2011 |archive-date=May 15, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210515155033/https://www.postandcourier.com/sports/two-clemson-players-taken-in-mlb-draft/article_d1f5796f-babb-5707-8866-3436ad8cb760.html |url-status=live }}{{cite news |last1=Bilodeau |first1=Kevin |title=Mariners sign Clemson SS Brad Miller |url=https://www.live5news.com/story/15272912/mariners-sign-clemson-ss-brad-miller/ |access-date=May 15, 2021 |work=Live 5 News |date=August 16, 2011 |archive-date=May 15, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210515155032/https://www.live5news.com/story/15272912/mariners-sign-clemson-ss-brad-miller/ |url-status=live }} He spent the 2011 season with the Clinton LumberKings, the Mariners' Single–A minor league affiliate, and made a fast impression upon the team by batting .415 in his first 14 professional baseball games.{{cite news |title=LumberKings open playoffs today at home |url=https://www.clintonherald.com/sports/lumberkings-open-playoffs-today-at-home/article_13a8e2a7-eadb-5697-bd3b-7ecfcade0bd6.html |access-date=May 15, 2021 |work=Clinton Herald |date=September 7, 2011 |archive-date=May 15, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210515155032/https://www.clintonherald.com/sports/lumberkings-open-playoffs-today-at-home/article_13a8e2a7-eadb-5697-bd3b-7ecfcade0bd6.html |url-status=live }}

Miller started the 2012 season with the High–A High Desert Mavericks of the California League. By July, he ranked second in hits (136) and runs (87) and fourth in doubles across all of minor league baseball. Mavericks manager Pedro Grifol said that he was most impressed by how Miller "doesn't get tired ... He's the same guy every day with the same intensity, and his work capacity is off the charts".{{cite news |last1=Glaser |first1=Kyle |title=Mavericks Notebook: Gillheeney proud owner of franchise strikeout record |url=https://www.vvdailypress.com/article/20120719/sports/307199978 |access-date=May 15, 2021 |work=Daily Press |date=July 19, 2012 |location=Victorville, CA |archive-date=May 15, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210515155032/https://www.vvdailypress.com/article/20120719/sports/307199978 |url-status=live }} He was also named to the California League All-Star team and was named the league Player of the Week for the week ending April 15. Miller spent the second part of the season with the Double–A Jackson Generals. Between the two teams, Miller finished the 2012 season with a .334 average, 15 home runs, and 68 RBIs in 137 games. He ranked second among all Minor League Baseball players with 186 hits and led all members of the Mariners farm system with 56 multi-hit games. At the end of the season, he received the Mariners Heart and Soul Award for "exemplary play and leadership skills both on and off the field".{{cite news |title=Mariners name INF Stefen Romero Minor League Player of the Year; RHP Carter Capps named Pitcher of the Year |url=https://www.mlb.com/mariners/news/mariners-name-romero-minor-league-player-of-the-year/c-39433698 |access-date=May 15, 2021 |work=MLB.com |agency=Seattle Mariners |publisher=Major League Baseball |date=October 3, 2012 |archive-date=May 15, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210515155031/https://www.mlb.com/mariners/news/mariners-name-romero-minor-league-player-of-the-year/c-39433698 |url-status=live }}

After playing 21 spring training games with the Mariners, Miller returned to Jackson in 2013 as MLB.com's ninth-highest Mariners prospect.{{cite news |last1=Harris |first1=Chris |title=Generals' 2013 Opening Day Roster Announced |url=https://www.milb.com/news/gcs-43846662 |access-date=May 15, 2021 |work=MiLB.com |publisher=Minor League Baseball |date=April 3, 2013 |archive-date=May 15, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210515155031/https://www.milb.com/news/gcs-43846662 |url-status=live }} He played 42 games with Jackson in 2013, batting .294 with six home runs and 25 RBIs in 153 at bats.{{cite web |title=Brad Miller College & Minor Leagues Statistics & History |url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/register/player.fcgi?id=miller005bra |website=Baseball-Reference.com |access-date=May 15, 2021 |archive-date=January 3, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210103234833/https://www.baseball-reference.com/register/player.fcgi?id=miller005bra |url-status=live }} He was quickly promoted to the Triple–A Tacoma Rainiers, where he hit .356 with six home runs and 28 RBIs in his first 22 games.{{cite news |last1=Baker |first1=Geoff |title=Miller joins top Mariners prospects in Seattle |url=https://www.seattletimes.com/sports/mariners/miller-joins-top-mariners-prospects-in-seattle/ |access-date=May 15, 2021 |work=The Seattle Times |date=June 28, 2013 |archive-date=May 15, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210515155032/https://www.seattletimes.com/sports/mariners/miller-joins-top-mariners-prospects-in-seattle/ |url-status=live }} At the end of June, Miller and pitcher Taijuan Walker were selected to play for Team USA in the 2013 All-Star Futures Game.{{cite news |last1=Harris |first1=Chris |title=2013 Generals Walker, Miller Selected to Futures Game |url=https://www.milb.com/news/gcs-51940718 |access-date=May 15, 2021 |work=MiLB.com |publisher=Minor League Baseball |date=June 27, 2013 |archive-date=May 15, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210515155031/https://www.milb.com/news/gcs-51940718 |url-status=live }} Miller would not participate in the game itself, however, due to a call-up to the major leagues.{{cite news |last1=Dutton |first1=Bob |title=Mariners Notebook: It's all about timing for Morrison |url=https://archive.kitsapsun.com/news/mariners-notebook-its-all-about-timing-for-morrison-ep-474082152-355492261.html/ |access-date=May 15, 2021 |work=Kitsap Sun |date=June 24, 2014 |archive-date=May 15, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210515155032/https://archive.kitsapsun.com/news/mariners-notebook-its-all-about-timing-for-morrison-ep-474082152-355492261.html/ |url-status=live }}

=Seattle Mariners (2013–2015)=

File:Brad Miller on August 4, 2013.jpg

Miller was called up to the Mariners on June 28, 2013, and made his major league debut the same day against the Chicago Cubs. Although he did not record a hit, his offensive and defensive plays impressed manager Eric Wedge, who said that Miller had "a solid first game".{{cite news |last1=Johns |first1=Greg |title=Miller hitless, but impactful in big league debut |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/brad-miller-hitless-but-impactful-in-big-league-debut-with-seattle-mariners/c-52033946 |access-date=May 15, 2021 |work=MLB.com |publisher=Major League Baseball |date=June 29, 2013 |archive-date=May 15, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210515160804/https://www.mlb.com/news/brad-miller-hitless-but-impactful-in-big-league-debut-with-seattle-mariners/c-52033946 |url-status=live }} Miller's first two major league home runs came on July 19 in a 10–7 win against the Houston Astros, making him the second Mariner rookie, behind childhood friend Franklin, to hit his first two career home runs in the same game. He was also the first player in Mariners history to play two games with at least four RBI in the first 17 games of his career.{{cite news |title=Brad Miller of the Seattle Mariners named the American League Player of the Week |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/brad-miller-of-the-seattle-mariners-named-the-american-league-player-of-the-week/c-54360644 |access-date=May 15, 2021 |work=MLB.com |publisher=Major League Baseball |date=July 22, 2013 |archive-date=May 15, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210515160805/https://www.mlb.com/news/brad-miller-of-the-seattle-mariners-named-the-american-league-player-of-the-week/c-54360644 |url-status=live }} His performance in that July 19 game earned Miller his first American League (AL) Player of the Week title for the week ending July 21.{{cite news |title=Brad Miller of the Seattle Mariners named the American League Player of the Week |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/brad-miller-of-the-seattle-mariners-named-the-american-league-player-of-the-week/c-54360644 |access-date=August 8, 2021 |work=MLB.com |publisher=Major League Baseball |date=July 22, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210515160805/https://www.mlb.com/news/brad-miller-of-the-seattle-mariners-named-the-american-league-player-of-the-week/c-54360644 |archive-date=May 15, 2021}}

On August 14, 2013, both Miller and Tampa Bay Rays player Ben Zobrist recorded both a leadoff and an additional home run. It was the second time in MLB history that both teams' leadoff hitters accomplished such a feat, following Chuck Knoblauch of the Minnesota Twins and Tony Phillips of the Detroit Tigers in 1994. Prior to that game, neither batter had led off a major league game with a home run.{{cite magazine |last1=Corcoran |first1=Cliff |title=Brad Miller and Ben Zobrist turn rare home run trick |url=https://www.si.com/mlb/2013/08/14/brad-miller-ben-zobrist-mariners-rays-home-runs |access-date=May 15, 2021 |magazine=Sports Illustrated |date=August 14, 2013 |archive-date=May 15, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210515160804/https://www.si.com/mlb/2013/08/14/brad-miller-ben-zobrist-mariners-rays-home-runs |url-status=live }} Miller closed out the season with his first career grand slam, which came in the fifth inning of a 7–5 win over the Oakland Athletics on September 28.{{cite news |title=Pair of Brad Miller HRs help Mariners roar by A's |url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/recap/_/gameId/330928112 |access-date=May 15, 2021 |work=ESPN.com |agency=Associated Press |date=September 28, 2013 |archive-date=May 15, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210515160804/https://www.espn.com/mlb/recap/_/id/330928112 |url-status=live }} In his rookie season, Miller batted .265 with eight home runs and 36 RBIs in 76 games and 306 at bats.{{cite web |title=Brad Miller Stats |url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/players/m/millebr02.shtml |website=Baseball-Reference.com |access-date=May 15, 2021 |archive-date=May 17, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210517024831/https://www.baseball-reference.com/players/m/millebr02.shtml |url-status=live }}

Going into the 2014 season, the Mariners signed Robinson Canó to serve as their everyday second baseman. This in turn pushed Miller into competition with Franklin, who had played second base the previous season, for the starting shortstop position.{{cite news |title=Miller in competition for Seattle's shortstop job |url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/mlb/2014/02/21/miller-in-competition-for-seattles-shortstop-job/5705829/ |access-date=May 15, 2021 |work=USA Today |agency=Associated Press |date=February 21, 2014 |archive-date=May 15, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210515163847/https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/mlb/2014/02/21/miller-in-competition-for-seattles-shortstop-job/5705829/ |url-status=live }} Miller's performance in spring training, batting .410 with four home runs and a 1.314 on-base plus slugging (OPS), won him the starting shortstop job.{{cite news |last1=Gleeman |first1=Aaron |title=Mariners call up Triple-A shortstop Chris Taylor to push struggling Brad Miller |url=https://mlb.nbcsports.com/2014/07/25/mariners-call-up-triple-a-shortstop-chris-taylor-to-push-struggling-brad-miller/ |access-date=May 15, 2021 |work=NBC Sports |date=July 25, 2014 |archive-date=May 15, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210515163848/https://mlb.nbcsports.com/2014/07/25/mariners-call-up-triple-a-shortstop-chris-taylor-to-push-struggling-brad-miller/ |url-status=live }} He struggled both offensively and defensively in the first part of the season, striking out in nearly 30% of his plate appearances in April and committing six errors in the first 34 games of the season, most of which occurred during routine plays.{{cite news |last1=Reeves |first1=Nathaniel |title=How Seattle Mariners' Brad Miller Turned Around 2014 Season |url=https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2118562-how-seattle-mariners-brad-miller-turned-around-2014-season |access-date=May 15, 2021 |work=Bleacher Report |date=July 3, 2014 |archive-date=May 15, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210515163849/https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2118562-how-seattle-mariners-brad-miller-turned-around-2014-season |url-status=live }} After what looked like a brief resurgence in June, Miller continued to slump, and the Mariners called up Chris Taylor from Tacoma on July 25 to take over the position. Taylor and Miller split the remainder of the season half and half.{{cite news |last1=Webeck |first1=Evan |title=Seattle Mariners: Brad Miller or Chris Taylor? Examining the Shortstop Battle |url=https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2362266-seattle-mariners-brad-miller-or-chris-taylor-examining-the-shortstop-battle |access-date=May 15, 2021 |work=Bleacher Report |date=February 11, 2015 |archive-date=May 15, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210515163847/https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2362266-seattle-mariners-brad-miller-or-chris-taylor-examining-the-shortstop-battle |url-status=live }} Miller finished the 2014 season with a .221 average, 10 home runs, and 36 RBIs in 123 games and 367 at bats.

Miller and Taylor entered 2015 in competition for the starting shortstop role, a position which Miller won by default after Taylor broke a bone in his wrist in mid-March and was expected to be sidelined for four to six weeks.{{cite news |last1=Dutton |first1=Bob |title=M's Taylor sidelined 4-to-6 weeks with broken bone in his right wrist |url=https://www.heraldnet.com/sports/ms-taylor-sidelined-4-to-6-weeks-with-broken-bone-in-his-right-wrist/ |access-date=May 15, 2021 |work=The Everett Herald |date=March 14, 2015 |archive-date=May 15, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210515163848/https://www.heraldnet.com/sports/ms-taylor-sidelined-4-to-6-weeks-with-broken-bone-in-his-right-wrist/ |url-status=live }} When Taylor returned in early May, he was made the team's shortstop, while Miller was told that he would play in a "super utility role", similar to that of Zobrist.{{cite news |last=Dutton |first=Bob |title=Mariners Notebook: Miller says he's 'pretty frustrated' at shift in roles |url=https://www.thenewstribune.com/sports/mlb/seattle-mariners/article26286445.html |access-date=May 6, 2015 |work=Tacoma News Tribune |date=May 5, 2015 |archive-date=May 27, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210527233352/https://www.thenewstribune.com/sports/mlb/seattle-mariners/article26286445.html |url-status=live }} He received his second career AL Player of the Week honor on May 17, following a six-game hitting streak that included three multi-hit games.{{cite news |title=Brad Miller of the Seattle Mariners named American League Player of the Week |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/brad-miller-of-the-seattle-mariners-named-american-league-player-of-the-week/c-125163266 |access-date=May 15, 2021 |work=MLB.com |publisher=Major League Baseball |date=May 18, 2015 |archive-date=May 15, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210515163848/https://www.mlb.com/news/brad-miller-of-the-seattle-mariners-named-american-league-player-of-the-week/c-125163266 |url-status=live }} His role as a utility player included a brief and unsuccessful stint in center field, which negatively impacted his overall defensive performance.{{cite magazine |last1=Corcoran |first1=Cliff |title=Winter Report Card: Rays fail to make moves in dismal off-season |url=https://www.si.com/mlb/2016/01/21/winter-report-card-tampa-bay-rays |access-date=May 15, 2021 |magazine=Sports Illustrated |date=January 21, 2016 |archive-date=May 15, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210515163847/https://www.si.com/mlb/2016/01/21/winter-report-card-tampa-bay-rays |url-status=live }} Offensively, Miller batted .258 for the season, with 11 home runs and 46 RBIs in 438 at bats.

=Tampa Bay Rays (2016–2018)=

File:Brad Miller 2016.jpg

On November 5, 2015, the Mariners traded Miller, first baseman Logan Morrison, and pitcher Danny Farquhar to the Tampa Bay Rays in exchange for pitchers Nathan Karns and C. J. Riefenhauser, as well as outfield prospect Boog Powell.{{cite news |title=Rays acquire former Olympia player in trade with Mariners |url=https://www.orlandosentinel.com/sports/highschool/os-hs-brad-miller-trade-tampa-bay-rays-seattle-mariners-story.html |access-date=May 15, 2021 |work=Orlando Sentinel |date=November 6, 2015 |archive-date=May 15, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210515165146/https://www.orlandosentinel.com/sports/highschool/os-hs-brad-miller-trade-tampa-bay-rays-seattle-mariners-story.html |url-status=live }} Serving as the Rays' shortstop in 2016, Miller struggled defensively, committing 13 errors in his first 90 games. Offensively, his performance was stronger, setting the franchise record with 17 single-season home runs as a shortstop.{{cite news |last1=Chastain |first1=Bill |title=Prioritizing D, Rays shift Miller to 1B as Duffy arrives |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/brad-miller-will-shift-over-to-first-base-c193207310 |access-date=May 15, 2021 |work=MLB.com |publisher=Major League Baseball |date=August 2, 2016 |archive-date=May 15, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210515165145/https://www.mlb.com/news/brad-miller-will-shift-over-to-first-base-c193207310 |url-status=live }} His record-setting 16th season home run as a shortstop came on July 31 in a game against the New York Yankees. The ball landed in the Rays Touch Tank, a hands-on aquarium exhibit in center field. He was the fifth player to notch a home run into the Touch Tank since it opened in 2006.{{cite news |last1=Blum |first1=Sam |last2=Chastain |first2=Bill |title=Rays sweep Yankees for 1st time since 2014 |url=https://www.mlb.com/rays/news/rays-sweep-yankees-for-first-time-since-2014-c192809170 |access-date=August 8, 2021 |work=MLB.com |publisher=Major League Baseball |date=July 31, 2016 |archive-date=August 8, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210808231734/https://www.mlb.com/rays/news/rays-sweep-yankees-for-first-time-since-2014-c192809170 |url-status=live }}

Despite improving in the middle infield in the month of July, with his last error coming on July 6, the Rays moved Miller to first base in August after acquiring Matt Duffy from the San Francisco Giants. At the time, regular first baseman Morrison had been on the disabled list; when he returned, Miller remained at first base while Morrison became a designated hitter.{{cite news |last1=Tabakin |first1=Adam |title=Tampa Bay Rays: Brad Miller a victim of his own versatility |url=https://www.foxsports.com/stories/mlb/tampa-bay-rays-brad-miller-a-victim-of-his-own-versatility |access-date=May 15, 2021 |work=FOX Sports |date=June 30, 2017 |archive-date=May 15, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210515165145/https://www.foxsports.com/stories/mlb/tampa-bay-rays-brad-miller-a-victim-of-his-own-versatility |url-status=live }} Miller capped off his breakout hitting year on September 21 in an 11–5 win against the Yankees. First, he was responsible for the second of three consecutive home runs in the third inning of the game, bookended by Evan Longoria and Corey Dickerson. In the eighth inning, Miller hit an additional solo home run to boost his season total to 30.{{cite news |title=Sanchez hits 2 more homers, Yankees beat Rays 11–5 |url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/recap/_/gameId/360921130 |access-date=August 8, 2021 |work=ESPN.com |agency=Associated Press |date=September 21, 2016 |archive-date=August 8, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210808231734/https://www.espn.com/mlb/recap/_/gameId/360921130 |url-status=live }} He trailed off after that, batting only .158 in his last 27 games and ending the season with an 0-for-18 slump. In his first season with the Rays, Miller batted .243 and set career highs with 30 home runs and 81 RBIs.

Following the departure of Logan Forsythe, Rays manager Kevin Cash placed Miller at second base for the 2017 season, saying that he was "still going to play short because we know that versatility will help us. But he is all about playing second base and being a really good one."{{cite news |last1=Topkin |first1=Marc |title=Cash makes clear Rays first option at second is Miller |url=https://www.tampabay.com/cash-makes-clear-rays-first-option-at-second-is-miller/2313623/ |access-date=May 15, 2021 |work=Tampa Bay Times |date=February 27, 2017 |archive-date=May 15, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210515170320/https://www.tampabay.com/cash-makes-clear-rays-first-option-at-second-is-miller/2313623/ |url-status=live }} Miller scored the first walk-off RBI of his career on April 8, when Toronto Blue Jays reliever Casey Lawrence walked him with the bases loaded in the 11th inning of a 2–2 deadlock. Miller's RBI walk brought home Mallex Smith, winning the game for Tampa.{{cite news |title=Lawrence walks home winner in MLB debut, Rays top Jays in 11 |url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/recap?gameId=370408130 |access-date=August 8, 2021 |work=ESPN |agency=Associated Press |date=April 8, 2017 |archive-date=August 8, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210808233535/https://www.espn.com/mlb/recap?gameId=370408130 |url-status=live }} A pair of injuries, first a left abdominal strain and then a right groin strain, sidelined Miller for a combined 42 games.{{cite news |last1=Chastain |first1=Bill |title=Rays taking it slow with Miller |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/rays-cautious-this-spring-with-brad-miller-c268593498 |access-date=May 15, 2021 |work=MLB.com |publisher=Major League Baseball |date=March 13, 2018 |archive-date=May 15, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210515170317/https://www.mlb.com/news/rays-cautious-this-spring-with-brad-miller-c268593498 |url-status=live }} In his absence, Tim Beckham took over at second base, a position he retained until being traded to the Baltimore Orioles on July 31, allowing Miller to return to his position.{{cite news |last1=Topkin |first1=Marc |title=Rays journal: Tim Beckham "shocked," ready for fresh start |url=https://www.tampabay.com/sports/baseball/rays/rays-journal-brad-miller-being-counted-on-to-regain-2016-form/2332173/ |access-date=May 15, 2021 |work=Tampa Bay Times |date=July 31, 2017 |archive-date=May 15, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210515170318/https://www.tampabay.com/sports/baseball/rays/rays-journal-brad-miller-being-counted-on-to-regain-2016-form/2332173/ |url-status=live }} Miller's injuries negatively impacted his offensive performance in 2017; he hit a career low .201 in 110 games, and his nine home runs were the fewest since his rookie season.

Miller missed a large part of the Rays' 2018 spring training after suffering a pinky toe fracture on February 23, leaving his major league role in question. Due to his series of injuries and lukewarm performance, Miller was designated for assignment on June 7, 2018, to make room on the 25-man roster for first base prospect Jake Bauers. At the time, Miller was hitting .256 with five home runs and 21 RBIs in 48 games.{{cite news |last1=Divish |first1=Ryan |title=Analysis: Does a Brad Miller reunion make sense for Mariners after Rays DFA him? |url=https://www.seattletimes.com/sports/mariners/the-mariners-opening-day-shortstop-in-2014-and-2015-brad-miller-is-designated-for-assignment-before-the-seattle-series/ |access-date=May 15, 2021 |work=The Seattle Times |date=June 7, 2018 |archive-date=May 15, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210515170716/https://www.seattletimes.com/sports/mariners/the-mariners-opening-day-shortstop-in-2014-and-2015-brad-miller-is-designated-for-assignment-before-the-seattle-series/ |url-status=live }}

=Milwaukee Brewers (2018)=

On June 10, 2018, the Rays traded Miller to the Milwaukee Brewers in exchange for utility player Ji-man Choi.{{cite news |title=Brewers get INF Brad Miller from Rays for 1B/OF Ji-Man Choi |url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/mlb/2018/06/10/brewers-get-inf-brad-miller-from-rays-for-1bof-ji-man-choi/35910587/ |access-date=May 15, 2021 |work=USA Today |date=June 10, 2018 |archive-date=May 15, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210515172238/https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/mlb/2018/06/10/brewers-get-inf-brad-miller-from-rays-for-1bof-ji-man-choi/35910587/ |url-status=live }} Miller started his Brewers tenure as the shortstop for the Triple-A Colorado Springs Sky Sox but was promoted on June 23 after right fielder Domingo Santana was optioned to the minors.{{cite news |last1=Haudricourt |first1=Tom |title=Brewers option Domingo Santana to Class AAA Colorado Springs, summon infielder Brad Miller |url=https://www.jsonline.com/story/sports/mlb/brewers/2018/06/23/brewers-option-slumping-domingo-santana-minors-summon-brad-miller/718861002/ |access-date=May 15, 2021 |work=Milwaukee Journal Sentinel |date=June 23, 2018 |archive-date=May 27, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210527233332/https://www.jsonline.com/story/sports/mlb/brewers/2018/06/23/brewers-option-slumping-domingo-santana-minors-summon-brad-miller/718861002/ |url-status=live }} On July 2, 2018, Miller recorded the second walk-off walk of his career, joining Adrian Beltre and Russell Martin as the only active MLB players at the time to have multiple walk-off walks.{{cite news |last1=McCalvy |first1=Adam |title=Miller at Miller: Brad's walk walks it off |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/brad-miller-draws-walk-off-walk-in-brewers-win-c283994176 |access-date=May 15, 2021 |work=MLB.com |publisher=Major League Baseball |date=July 2, 2018 |archive-date=May 15, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210515172238/https://www.mlb.com/news/brad-miller-draws-walk-off-walk-in-brewers-win-c283994176 |url-status=live }} Miller was designated for assignment on July 28 to make room in the lineup for recently acquired infielder Mike Moustakas.{{cite news |last1=McCalvy |first1=Adam |title=Brewers land big bat in Moustakas |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/mike-moustakas-traded-to-brewers-c287727850 |access-date=May 15, 2021 |work=MLB.com |publisher=Major League Baseball |date=July 28, 2018 |archive-date=May 15, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210515172239/https://www.mlb.com/news/mike-moustakas-traded-to-brewers-c287727850 |url-status=live }} After being released from his contract shortly thereafter, Miller underwent arthroscopic surgery in late August to repair a torn hip labrum that he had suffered in 2017. The microfracture surgery was similar to one undergone by Corey Seager, and was intended to address cartilage damage from the injury.{{cite news |last1=Plunkett |first1=Bill |title=Three-year odyssey has Brad Miller fighting for spot on Dodgers bench |url=https://www.ocregister.com/2019/03/17/three-year-odyssey-has-brad-miller-fighting-for-spot-on-dodgers-bench/ |access-date=May 15, 2021 |work=The Orange County Register |date=March 17, 2019 |archive-date=May 15, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210515172239/https://www.ocregister.com/2019/03/17/three-year-odyssey-has-brad-miller-fighting-for-spot-on-dodgers-bench/ |url-status=live }} Miller played in 27 games for Milwaukee, batting .230 with two home runs, eight RBIs, and five runs.

=Cleveland Indians (2019)=

Miller signed a minor league contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers on February 28, 2019, with the expectation that he would take over the second baseman role abdicated by Chase Utley.{{cite news |last1=Gurnick |first1=Ken |title=Dodgers sign veteran IF Miller to Minors deal |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/dodgers-sign-brad-miller |access-date=May 16, 2021 |work=MLB.com |publisher=Major League Baseball |date=February 28, 2019 |archive-date=May 16, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210516180439/https://www.mlb.com/news/dodgers-sign-brad-miller |url-status=live }} On March 21, however, Miller opted out of his contract and became a free agent when he learned that he would not be named to the Dodgers' Opening Day roster.{{cite news |last1=Castillo |first1=Jorge |title=Brad Miller opts out of contract after learning he wouldn't make Dodgers' roster |url=https://www.latimes.com/sports/dodgers/la-sp-brad-miller-dodgers-20190321-story.html |access-date=May 16, 2021 |work=Los Angeles Times |date=March 21, 2019 |archive-date=May 16, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210516180439/https://www.latimes.com/sports/dodgers/la-sp-brad-miller-dodgers-20190321-story.html |url-status=live }} Three days later, Miller signed a one-year, $1 million contract with the Cleveland Indians. He began the season at second base, filling in for an injured Jason Kipnis.{{cite news |last1=Hoynes |first1=Paul |title=Cleveland Indians sign free agent infielder Brad Miller to fill hole at second base |url=https://www.cleveland.com/tribe/2019/03/cleveland-indians-sign-free-agent-infielder-brad-miller-to-fill-hole-at-second-base.html |access-date=May 16, 2021 |work=The Plain Dealer |date=March 24, 2021 |archive-date=April 1, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190401053830/https://www.cleveland.com/tribe/2019/03/cleveland-indians-sign-free-agent-infielder-brad-miller-to-fill-hole-at-second-base.html |url-status=live }} When Kipnis returned from the disabled list on April 15, Miller was designated for assignment. Miller was frustrated with the team's decision to remove him from the roster, telling reporters, "Obviously, they don't want the best guys up there. So I'm just trying to take it somewhere else and see what we've got."{{cite news |last1=Newport |first1=Kyle |title=Brad Miller on Indians Release: 'Obviously, They Don't Want the Best Guys' |url=https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2831565-brad-miller-on-indians-release-obviously-they-dont-want-the-best-guys |access-date=May 16, 2021 |work=Bleacher Report |date=April 16, 2019 |archive-date=May 16, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210516180438/https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2831565-brad-miller-on-indians-release-obviously-they-dont-want-the-best-guys |url-status=live }} After clearing waivers, Miller elected free agency on April 17.{{cite news|url=https://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2019/04/brad-miller-elects-free-agency.html|title=Brad Miller Elects Free Agency|date=April 17, 2019|last=Todd|first=Jeff|work=MLB Trade Rumors|access-date=June 13, 2019|archive-date=July 2, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190702151114/https://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2019/04/brad-miller-elects-free-agency.html|url-status=live}} He batted .250 in Cleveland, with one home run and four RBIs in 36 at bats.

=New York Yankees organization (2019)=

The New York Yankees signed Miller to a minor league deal on April 22, 2019. At the time, 13 players were on New York's injured list, including four infielders.{{cite news |last1=Miller |first1=Randy |title=Yankees sign Brad Miller to minor-league deal: What it means |url=https://www.nj.com/yankees/2019/04/yankees-sign-brad-miller-to-minor-league-deal-what-it-means.html |access-date=May 16, 2021 |work=NJ.com |date=April 22, 2019 |archive-date=May 16, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210516180839/https://www.nj.com/yankees/2019/04/yankees-sign-brad-miller-to-minor-league-deal-what-it-means.html |url-status=live }} He played in 41 games with the Triple A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders of the International League, batting .294 with 10 home runs and 29 RBIs in 136 at bats.

=First stint with the Philadelphia Phillies (2019)=

On June 13, 2019, the Yankees traded Miller to the Philadelphia Phillies in exchange for cash considerations. He took over Jay Bruce's role as the Phillies' utility player, as Bruce had become the Phillies' regular left fielder after Andrew McCutchen suffered a season-ending anterior cruciate ligament injury.{{cite news |last1=Zolecki |first1=Todd |title=Miller joins Phillies as left-handed bat |url=https://www.mlb.com/phillies/news/brad-miller-to-phillies |access-date=June 13, 2019 |work=MLB.com |publisher=Major League Baseball |date=June 13, 2019 |archive-date=June 14, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190614032115/https://www.mlb.com/phillies/news/brad-miller-to-phillies |url-status=live }} Miller became a much-needed left-handed batter for the Phillies' struggling offense, going 6-for-16 with two home runs and four walks in his first appearances.{{cite news |last1=Breen |first1=Matt |title=Brad Miller has brought the Phillies more than a bamboo plant |url=https://www.inquirer.com/news/brad-miller-phillies-bamboo-matt-klentak-yankees-dodgers-mariners-20190701.html |access-date=May 25, 2021 |work=The Philadelphia Inquirer |date=July 1, 2019 |archive-date=November 7, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201107215559/https://www.inquirer.com/news/brad-miller-phillies-bamboo-matt-klentak-yankees-dodgers-mariners-20190701.html |url-status=live }} Although the Phillies' season was disappointing, with an 81–81 record, Miller's two home runs in the final game of the season made him the first player in franchise history to record three multi-home run games in a nine-game span.{{cite news |title=Phillies Finish Season .500 As Brad Miller Makes Team History, Gabe Kapler's Seat Gets Hotter |url=https://philadelphia.cbslocal.com/2019/09/29/philadelphia-phillies-brad-miller-record-gabe-kapler-hot-seat/ |access-date=May 25, 2021 |work=CBS 3 Philadelphia |date=September 9, 2019 |archive-date=January 20, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210120050449/https://philadelphia.cbslocal.com/2019/09/29/philadelphia-phillies-brad-miller-record-gabe-kapler-hot-seat/ |url-status=live }} While playing a variety of roles for the season, including third base, shortstop, and outfield, Miller batted .263 for the Phillies in 2019, with 12 home runs and 21 RBIs in 118 at bats.

=St. Louis Cardinals (2020)=

Miller signed a one-year, $2 million contract with the St. Louis Cardinals on February 12, 2020. During his stints as a free agent, the Cardinals had reached out to Miller, but had never been able to make room for him on the 40-man roster. After Jordan Hicks underwent Tommy John surgery, the Cardinals were able to accommodate the extra player.{{cite news |last1=Jones |first1=Jeff |title=With a bigger MLB roster, Cardinals new lefty-hitting infielder can fill special role |url=https://www.bnd.com/sports/mlb/st-louis-cardinals/article240299466.html |access-date=May 16, 2021 |work=Belleville News-Democrat |date=February 14, 2020 |archive-date=May 16, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210516185043/https://www.bnd.com/sports/mlb/st-louis-cardinals/article240299466.html |url-status=live }} On September 1, Miller hit two home runs and recorded seven RBIs, the latter a career high, in a 16–2 game against the Cincinnati Reds. The Cardinals' 23 game hits were the highest in any MLB game that season.{{cite news |last1=Goold |first1=Derrick |title=Queen City crush: Brad Miller swats two homers, seven RBIs as Cardinals rout Reds 16–2 |url=https://www.stltoday.com/sports/baseball/professional/cardinal-beat/queen-city-crush-brad-miller-swats-two-homers-seven-rbis-as-cardinals-rout-reds-16/article_3faf0ddf-937c-5075-b283-f1b2876e60b3.html |access-date=May 16, 2021 |work=St. Louis Post-Dispatch |date=September 1, 2020 |archive-date=May 16, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210516185042/https://www.stltoday.com/sports/baseball/professional/cardinal-beat/queen-city-crush-brad-miller-swats-two-homers-seven-rbis-as-cardinals-rout-reds-16/article_3faf0ddf-937c-5075-b283-f1b2876e60b3.html |url-status=live }} During the 60-game season, shortened by the COVID-19 pandemic, Miller played in 48 games for the Cardinals, hitting .232 with seven home runs and 25 RBIs in 142 at-bats.

=Second stint with the Philadelphia Phillies (2021)=

Miller signed a one-year, $3.5 million contract to return to the Phillies on February 17, 2021.{{cite news |last1=Zolecki |first1=Todd |title=Brad Miller, Phillies complete 1-year deal |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/brad-miller-phillies-deal |access-date=May 25, 2021 |work=MLB.com |date=February 17, 2021 |archive-date=May 25, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210525153455/https://www.mlb.com/news/brad-miller-phillies-deal |url-status=live }} Miller hit his 100th career home run on May 25, 2021, against Shawn Morimando of the Miami Marlins.{{cite news |last1=Lauber |first1=Scott |title=Zach Eflin's struggles and another ill-timed error send Phillies to 9–6 loss to Marlins |url=https://www.inquirer.com/phillies/phillies-marlins-game-recap-zach-eflin-ronald-torreyes-20210524.html |access-date=May 24, 2021 |work=The Philadelphia Inquirer |date=May 25, 2021 |archive-date=May 25, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210525035254/https://www.inquirer.com/phillies/phillies-marlins-game-recap-zach-eflin-ronald-torreyes-20210524.html |url-status=live }} On July 8, while starting at first base and batting second against the Chicago Cubs, Miller hit three home runs and collected five RBIs in the Phillies' 8–0 victory. It was the first three-home run game of Miller's career and the first by any member of the Phillies since Jayson Werth in 2008.{{cite news |last1=Herrera |first1=Ryan |title=3 Wrigley HRs! Miller rewards skipper's savvy |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/brad-miller-home-run-history-at-wrigley-field |access-date=July 8, 2021 |work=MLB.com |publisher=Major League Baseball |date=July 8, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210806092559/https://www.mlb.com/news/brad-miller-home-run-history-at-wrigley-field |archive-date=August 6, 2021 |url-status=live}} On July 29, Miller capped off a Phillies comeback with a walk-off grand slam against the Washington Nationals, bringing the final score to 11–8. It was the first time that Philadelphia had mounted a victory after starting a game with a deficit of seven or more runs since 2010.{{cite news |last1=Pianovich |first1=Stephen |title=Phillies pull off biggest comeback in more than 10 years as Brad Miller hits walk-off grand slam vs. Nationals |url=https://www.cbssports.com/mlb/news/phillies-pull-off-biggest-comeback-in-more-than-10-years-as-brad-miller-hits-walk-off-grand-slam-vs-nationals/ |access-date=July 29, 2021 |work=CBS Sports |date=July 29, 2021 |archive-date=July 30, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210730002543/https://www.cbssports.com/mlb/news/phillies-pull-off-biggest-comeback-in-more-than-10-years-as-brad-miller-hits-walk-off-grand-slam-vs-nationals/ |url-status=live }} In 140 games and 331 at bats for the Phillies, Miller batted .227 for the season, with 20 home runs and 49 RBIs. He became a free agent at the end of the season.{{cite news |last=Zolecki |first=Todd |title=Phillies offseason FAQ: What to look for |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/phillies-2021-offseason-faq |work=MLB.com |publisher=MLB Advanced Media |date=November 2, 2021 |access-date=November 3, 2021 |archive-date=January 26, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220126175747/https://www.mlb.com/news/phillies-2021-offseason-faq |url-status=live }}

=Texas Rangers (2022–2023)=

On March 17, 2022, Miller signed a two-year, $10 million contract with the Texas Rangers.{{cite news |title=Infielder Brad Miller agrees to $10 million deal with Texas Rangers |url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/33527891/infielder-brad-miller-agrees-2-year-10m-deal-texas-rangers |work=ESPN |agency=Associated Press |date=March 17, 2022 |access-date=July 22, 2024 |archive-date=October 19, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231019042114/https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/33527891/infielder-brad-miller-agrees-2-year-10m-deal-texas-rangers |url-status=live }} The deal gave the Rangers versatility in the outfield and at third base, particularly while top prospect Josh Jung was sidelined by injury.{{cite news |last=Landry |first=Kennedi |title=Veteran Miller gives Rangers options with two-year deal |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/brad-miller-deal-with-rangers |work=MLB.com |publisher=MLB Advanced Media |date=March 17, 2022 |access-date=July 22, 2024 |archive-date=July 22, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240722195200/https://www.mlb.com/news/brad-miller-deal-with-rangers |url-status=live }} Miller played his 1,000th MLB game on June 26, going 1-for-4 in left field against the Washington Nationals.{{cite news |last=Landry |first=Kennedi |title=After 1,000 games, Miller still has 'the same energy' |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/brad-miller-reflects-on-1-000th-career-game |work=MLB.com |publisher=MLB Advanced Media |date=June 26, 2022 |access-date=July 22, 2024}} Miller spent much of the 2022 season battling neck and hip soreness, and after multiple stints on the injured list, he was shut down in September.{{cite news |last=Landry |first=Kennedi |title=Miller bringing health, hunger and hype to Rangers |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/healthy-brad-miller-excited-to-contribute-to-rangers-in-2023 |work=MLB.com |publisher=MLB Advanced Media |date=February 25, 2023 |access-date=July 22, 2024 |archive-date=March 19, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230319155702/https://www.mlb.com/news/healthy-brad-miller-excited-to-contribute-to-rangers-in-2023 |url-status=live }} In 222 at bats across 81 games, he hit .212 with seven home runs and 32 RBI.

After homering against the Toronto Blue Jays in the Rangers' 2022 season opener, Miller started the 2023 season with a home run against the Philadelphia Phillies, becoming the first Ranger since Ian Kinsler to homer in consecutive Opening Day games.{{cite news |last=McFarland |first=Shawn |title=Brad Miller homers in second-straight opening day, becomes sixth Rangers player to do so |url=https://www.dallasnews.com/sports/2023/03/30/brad-miller-homers-in-second-straight-opening-day-becomes-sixth-rangers-player-to-do-so/ |work=The Dallas Morning News |date=March 30, 2023 |access-date=July 22, 2024 |url-access=limited |archive-date=February 26, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240226171539/https://www.dallasnews.com/sports/2023/03/30/brad-miller-homers-in-second-straight-opening-day-becomes-sixth-rangers-player-to-do-so/ |url-status=live }} His injury trouble continued in his second season with the Rangers. After hitting .208 with one home run and six RBI as a bench player, he was placed on the injured list with a right oblique strain on June 3.{{cite magazine |last=Postins |first=Matthew |title=Brad Miller Wraps Up First Week of Texas Rangers Injury Rehab |url=https://www.si.com/mlb/rangers/news/brad-miller-wraps-up-first-week-texas-rangers-injury-rehab |magazine=Sports Illustrated |date=June 20, 2023 |access-date=July 22, 2024 |archive-date=July 22, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240722200636/https://www.si.com/mlb/rangers/news/brad-miller-wraps-up-first-week-texas-rangers-injury-rehab |url-status=live }} Miller returned to the lineup on June 30,{{cite news |title=Rangers' Brad Miller: Activated from injured list |url=https://www.cbssports.com/fantasy/baseball/news/rangers-brad-miller-activated-from-injured-list/ |agency=RotoWire |work=CBS Sports |date=June 30, 2023 |access-date=July 22, 2024}} but was sidelined again on August 2 with a left hamstring strain.{{cite news |last=Worden |first=Josh |title=Brad Miller slated to rehab in Frisco |url=https://www.milb.com/app-firstpitch/frisco/news/brad-miller-slated-to-rehab-in-frisco-x5899 |work=MiLB.com |publisher=MLB Advanced Media |date=September 1, 2023 |access-date=July 22, 2024}} In September, the Rangers transferred Miller to the 60-day injured list, which enabled them to promote top prospect Evan Carter and keep Carter on the roster for the postseason.{{cite magazine |last=Postins |first=Matthew |title=Evan Carter In Tonight's Texas Rangers Lineup, Brad Miller Moved to 60-Day IL |url=https://www.si.com/mlb/rangers/news/texas-rangers-officially-promote-evan-carter-move-adolis-garcia-injured-list |magazine=Sports Illustrated |date=September 8, 2023 |access-date=July 22, 2024 |archive-date=July 22, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240722200635/https://www.si.com/mlb/rangers/news/texas-rangers-officially-promote-evan-carter-move-adolis-garcia-injured-list |url-status=live }}{{cite news |last=Grant |first=Evan |title=Why Evan Carter would be eligible for the Rangers' postseason roster |url=https://www.dallasnews.com/sports/rangers/2023/09/27/why-evan-carter-would-be-eligible-for-the-rangers-postseason-roster/ |work=The Dallas Morning News |date=September 27, 2023 |access-date=July 22, 2024 |url-access=limited |archive-date=January 12, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240112142509/https://www.dallasnews.com/sports/rangers/2023/09/27/why-evan-carter-would-be-eligible-for-the-rangers-postseason-roster/ |url-status=live }} After hitting .214 with one home run and six RBI in 56 at bats, Miller became a free agent at the end of the season.{{cite news |last=Ammenheuser |first=David |title=Which Texas Rangers will return in 2024? A look at the contract status of every player |url=https://www.star-telegram.com/sports/mlb/texas-rangers/article281386113.html |work=Fort Worth Star-Telegram |date=November 4, 2023 |access-date=July 22, 2024 |url-access=limited |archive-date=November 4, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231104231919/https://www.star-telegram.com/sports/mlb/texas-rangers/article281386113.html |url-status=live }}

=San Diego Padres organization (2024)=

On March 5, 2024, Miller signed a minor league contract with the San Diego Padres, in a deal that included an invitation to spring training.{{cite magazine |last=Postins |first=Matthew |title=Former Texas Rangers Infielder Signs With San Diego Padres |url=https://www.si.com/mlb/rangers/news/former-texas-rangers-brad-miller-signs-san-diego-padres-matt9 |magazine=Sports Illustrated |date=March 6, 2024 |access-date=July 22, 2024 |archive-date=July 22, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240722200937/https://www.si.com/mlb/rangers/news/former-texas-rangers-brad-miller-signs-san-diego-padres-matt9 |url-status=live }} After going 0-for-6 with three strikeouts in Cactus League play, he was released on March 13.{{cite news |title=Brad Miller: Cut by San Diego |url=https://www.cbssports.com/fantasy/baseball/news/brad-miller-cut-by-san-diego/ |agency=RotoWire |work=CBS Sports |date=March 20, 2024 |access-date=July 22, 2024}}

Player profile

Although he has played in various positions throughout his major league career, Miller has always preferred playing shortstop. He told the Tampa Bay Times in 2015, "Obviously in this game you want to give yourself all the opportunities and do whatever is asked of you. But I'm a shortstop, and I know where I want to be on the field."{{cite news |last1=Topkin |first1=Marc |title=New Ray Brad Miller excited to join old friends |url=https://www.tampabay.com/sports/baseball/rays/new-rays-ss-brad-miller-excited-to-join-old-friends/2252991/ |access-date=May 15, 2021 |work=Tampa Bay Times |date=November 6, 2015 |archive-date=May 15, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210515165439/https://www.tampabay.com/sports/baseball/rays/new-rays-ss-brad-miller-excited-to-join-old-friends/2252991/ |url-status=live }} When playing for AL teams, Miller has also seen time as a designated hitter. He told the St. Louis Post-Dispatch in 2020 that "the industry views me as more of a bat", and that his defensive abilities have come under criticism.{{cite news |last1=Goold |first1=Derrick |title=Universal DH? Try 'utility DH.' AL-seasoned Brad Miller leads Cardinals' versatile fielders who fit hitter role |url=https://www.stltoday.com/sports/baseball/professional/universal-dh-try-utility-dh-al-seasoned-brad-miller-leads-cardinals-versatile-fielders-who-fit/article_c06512de-5d4c-5a8e-9c33-5539d5a1b377.html |access-date=May 27, 2021 |work=St. Louis Post-Dispatch |date=May 21, 2020 |archive-date=June 6, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200606040829/https://www.stltoday.com/sports/baseball/professional/universal-dh-try-utility-dh-al-seasoned-brad-miller-leads-cardinals-versatile-fielders-who-fit/article_c06512de-5d4c-5a8e-9c33-5539d5a1b377.html |url-status=live }} When playing defensively, Miller uses three different baseball gloves, as well as a first baseman's mitt given to him by Paul Goldschmidt, depending on what role he is expected to play.{{cite news |last1=Breen |first1=Matt |title=The Phillies' rare investment in Brad Miller is already paying off |url=https://www.inquirer.com/phillies/phillies-brad-miller-bench-pinch-hitting-20210406.html |access-date=May 27, 2021 |work=The Philadelphia Inquirer |date=April 6, 2021 |archive-date=May 27, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210527233333/https://www.inquirer.com/phillies/phillies-brad-miller-bench-pinch-hitting-20210406.html |url-status=live }}

Personal life

Miller is a bamboo aficionado. He keeps several bamboo plants in his Florida home, saying that the plants are low-maintenance enough to maintain with a baseball schedule. In June 2019, he purchased a "lucky bamboo plant" from a shop in Philadelphia's Chinatown, which he believed helped break the Phillies' seven-game losing streak.{{cite news |last1=Breen |first1=Matt |title=The Phillies lost seven straight games, so Brad Miller bought lucky bamboo in Chinatown |url=https://www.inquirer.com/phillies/brad-miller-philadelphia-phillies-lucky-bamboo-chinatown-20190625.html |access-date=May 25, 2021 |work=The Philadelphia Inquirer |date=June 25, 2019 |archive-date=May 26, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210526005446/https://www.inquirer.com/phillies/brad-miller-philadelphia-phillies-lucky-bamboo-chinatown-20190625.html |url-status=live }}

References

External links

{{baseballstats|mlb=543543|espn=32206|br=m/millebr02|brm=miller005bra|fangraphs=12775|retro=M/Pmillb002}}

[https://web.archive.org/web/20120503102559/http://www.clemsontigers.com/sports/m-basebl/mtt/miller_brad00.html Player Bio: Brad Miller – Clemson University]

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