Julio Rodríguez's 2-word review will get Mariners fans hyped for closer's 2025 season

Monday morning in Peoria, Arizona, Mariners fans, analysts, and executives were treated to a spectacle that may never be seen again. Two of Seattle’s brightest stars, center fielder Julio Rodríguez and closer Andrés Muñoz, went head-to-head in a live batting session for the first—and possibly last—time.

Rodríguez stepped into the box twice against Muñoz, and the results were as electrifying as expected. In their first encounter, Muñoz unleashed a blistering 100-mph fastball, striking Rodríguez out on a 2-2 count. The second battle saw Rodríguez get his revenge, launching the very first pitch he saw, a high-octane fastball over the center field fence on one bounce, a shot that would have gone for a double in live play.

Mariners insider Adam Jude of the Seattle Times caught up with Rodríguez, who had nothing but praise for his teammate’s overpowering arsenal. “Obviously an electric fastball and one of the best sliders I’ve ever seen in my life,” he remarked. “‘Muñi’ is just that guy.” He also acknowledged how difficult the experience was, as Muñoz’s wicked slider completely buckled him in their first showdown.

The takeaway? This was a one-time event. Rodríguez declared definitively, “Never again” will he step in against Muñoz in that kind of setting.

Muñoz didn’t even unleash his latest weapon against Rodríguez—a newly developed kick changeup. But outfielder Cade Marlowe wasn’t so lucky, as he whiffed over top of the deceptive pitch in his own turn at the plate. The mere presence of such a new wrinkle to Muñoz’s already devastating arsenal signals promising growth for the Mariners’ bullpen.

Can the Mariners build the chemistry needed for a playoff push?

Beyond the on-field intensity, the vibes at Mariners camp have been nothing short of infectious. After a disappointing end to the 2024 season and an offseason filled with questions and frustration, there’s an undeniable sense of renewed camaraderie in Peoria. Rodríguez, alongside teammates Randy Arozarena and Víctor Robles, even took things a step further—literally—by dyeing their hair blonde, a visible display of unity and team chemistry.

Of course, these lighthearted moments and intra-squad battles don’t erase all concerns about the team’s roster or its long-term outlook. But what is evident is the Mariners’ effort to build a stronger, more cohesive unit heading into 2025. This fresh mindset—one that several players admitted was missing last year—could prove to be the missing piece in turning potential into playoff contention.

For now, all eyes are on this team as they work through Spring Training. If this energy carries over into the regular season, Mariners fans might just have reason to believe that something special is brewing in Seattle.