Padres brush off talk of pitch tipping before Game 3

Internet talk dismissed

The San Diego Padres face plenty of concerns as they stare down playoff elimination. However, team staff do not believe that closer Mason Miller was tipping his pitches during a recent loss.

Manager Craig Stammen addressed the online speculation that popped up after Game 2 of the National League Division Series. The Milwaukee Brewers rallied for two runs in the ninth inning to secure a 4-3 victory.

Stammen defended the team preparation on Monday at Petco Park. He stated that a dedicated crew checks pitcher mechanics every single day as part of their standard routine.

Miller struggled with control during his blown save. He threw only 21 of his 40 pitches for strikes across two innings, while the Brewers walked three times before Jackson Chourio hit a winning single with two strikes.

Backs against the wall

The Padres now trail 0-2 in the series and need a win to save their season. Veteran right hander Nick Pivetta takes the mound for Game 3 after missing most of the regular season with an elbow injury.

Pivetta spent nearly five months recovering before returning to action in September. He believes the team has enough experienced players to bounce back from the deficit.

Padres slugger Manny Machado acknowledged the tough road ahead. The team must face Dustin May, a familiar opponent who previously spent several seasons with the Los Angeles Dodgers.