In 2024, Andrés Muñoz was among the top relievers in baseball, playing a vital role in the Seattle Mariners’ bullpen.
Over 59.1 innings, he recorded a stellar 2.12 ERA, striking out 77 batters while limiting opponents to a .153 batting average. His WHIP stood at an impressive 0.96, and he secured 22 saves as Seattle’s primary closer. His stats alone solidify his case as one of the league’s best relievers.
However, according to one national writer, Muñoz still doesn’t make the cut.
ESPN’s Buster Olney mistakenly leaves Andres Munoz off his list of top 10 relievers
ESPN’s Buster Olney has been ranking the top 10 players at each position, and while he’s given high praise to Mariners stars like Julio Rodríguez (No. 1 center fielder) and Cal Raleigh (No. 3 catcher, though some argue he should be higher), his recent top 10 list for relief pitchers heading into the 2025 season was missing a major name: Andrés Muñoz.
Given Muñoz’s dominant performance, leaving him off this list is a significant oversight. His reliability and clutch pitching have made him one of the top bullpen arms in the game, and he’s someone Mariners manager Dan Wilson will lean on heavily in 2025.
Muñoz has consistently faced tough opponents in high-pressure situations and delivered. His triple-digit fastball, devastating slider, and new changeup make him nearly unhittable and a major threat to every team.
Muñoz earned his first All-Star selection in 2024, clearly recognizing his elite talent. He anchored Seattle’s bullpen and played a crucial role in keeping the team competitive in the tough American League. It’s hard to understand how someone with such an impact could be excluded from a list of the best relievers.
While rankings are subjective and MLB has many outstanding relievers, it’s tough to argue that Muñoz doesn’t deserve a spot on Olney’s list. If he continues to perform at his usual high level in 2025, he’ll make it undeniable that he belongs among the league’s best.
For Mariners fans, Muñoz’s omission from the rankings is frustrating, but it doesn’t change his importance to the team. He remains one of the most dominant relievers in baseball and a vital part of Seattle’s success. Regardless of national recognition, the Mariners know they have one of the top closers in the game.
Be the first to comment