Mariners Minors: Danny Muno – Third Baseman – Tacoma

Welcome to the first installment of Mariners Minors. An article segment where we profile players succeeding at various levels of the farm system and cover their history, how the team acquired them, and the like.

For this one, as seen in the headline we’ll look at third baseman Danny Muno and his time in the Mariners organization and at the end predict his next venture into the big leagues.

Background

Daniel Joseph Muno attended Fresno State. As a freshman he hit .332 and was named Freshman of the Year. In his junior year, he set the school record for most walks in a career with 167. After that season he was drafted in the 26th round of the 2010 MLB draft by the Chicago Cubs. He did not sign, and returned to Fresno State for the 2011 season. He hit .348 that year and wound up upping his draft stock to the 8th round where the Mets selected him.

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He had a successful first season in 2011. He hit .355 with 23 doubles and a BB:K ratio of 43:39. Baseball America said he had the best plate discipline in the Mets’ system. That right there probably is the reason he’s in the Mariners system today, as we know, Jerry Dipoto loves guys that can manage the strike zone.

In 2012 though, Muno’s career hit a snag as he was suspended 50 games for use of PEDs. Upon his return, he found his way to the top of the farm, and made his Major League debut in April of 2015 with the Mets. He lasted 17 games and hit .148. He was released by the Mets in 2016.

Career with the Mariners

After leaving the Mets, he made his way through the White Sox, Marlins, and Tigers’ organizations before settling with the Southern Maryland Blue Crabs of the Atlantic League. Seattle purchased his contract, though, and sent him to Tacoma.

Next: Mariners Analysis: Just how good Mike Zunino is

This year with the Rainiers he’s seen his average as high as .417. Currently, however, he’s hitting .295. That is over 29 games. He has eight doubles, three homers, but that staple plate discipline has dipped, as he has 15 walks to 29 strikeouts.

Final Thoughts

While .295 is a solid average through 30 games, I doubt Muno will get a shot at the bigs in a M’s uniform. They are not in need currently of a third baseman with little power. Kyle Seager plays Gold Glove defense and can be a solid hitter with 30 homer power. If Muno gets another chance in the majors, it’s not with Seattle.