In 2024, Andrés Muñoz was a top reliever for the Seattle Mariners, contributing significantly to their bullpen.
He had a 2.12 ERA in 59.1 innings, striking out 77 batters and limiting opponents to a.153 batting average. His WHIP was an impressive 0.96, and he racked up 22 saves as Seattle’s primary closer. His numbers alone establish him as one of baseball’s top relievers.
According to one national writer, Muñoz does not meet the criteria.
ESPN’s Buster Olney incorrectly removes Andres Munoz off his list of top 10 relievers.
ESPN’s Buster Olney recently reviewed his top ten players at each position. Although he has given favorable rankings to Mariners players like Julio Rodríguez (No. 1 center fielder) and Cal Raleigh (No. 3 catcher, though you could argue he should be higher), he recently released his list of the top 10 relief pitchers for the 2025 season, and one name was shockingly absent: Muñiz.
Muñoz’s dominance makes him an important inclusion on this list.
Muñoz’s consistency and timely throwing have made him one of the top bullpen pitchers in the game. Mariners manager Dan Wilson will rely on him heavily in 2025. He has consistently faced tough matchups in high-pressure situations and delivered. His triple-digit fastball and wicked slider make him practically unhittable, and his new changeup should instill fear in every opposing squad.
Muñoz was named an All-Star for the first time in 2024, highlighting his exceptional talent. He was the backbone of Seattle’s bullpen, helping the team compete in a tough American League. It’s difficult to imagine how someone with that kind of influence could be left off a list of the game’s best relievers.
Of course, rankings are subjective, and MLB has many quality of relievers. Olney’s list clearly shows that Muñoz deserves to be on it. If he continues to perform at his current level in 2025, he will leave no doubt that he belongs among the league’s finest.
Mariners fans are disappointed that Muñoz is not included in the rankings. However, it has no effect on how important he is to the squad. He remains one of baseball’s most dominant relievers and an integral part of Seattle’s success. Whether or not he receives national notice, the Mariners are confident they have one of the best closers in the game.
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