Mariners flamethrower Andrés Muñoz has taken over as MLB's best closer

If you were to ask someone to use one word to describe the Seattle Mariners, whether it be for this season specifically or over the last few years in general, we have no doubt you would get some thought-provoking and colorful responses.

However, one word we certainly think is worthy is "inconsistent."

Whether it's the Mariners' results as a team or for individuals such as Julio Rodríguez, this has been one of the most infuriating aspects for fans of the team. For every peak which brings moments of euphoria and expectation, there have been almost as many troughs which have resulted in feelings of frustration and despair.

Andrés Muñoz is the epitome of consistency for the Mariners

One player seemingly immune to these erratic performances has been Andrés Muñoz, as one of the few reliable relievers in Seattle's bullpen since becoming a mainstay in 2022. And amazingly, he is better than ever this year, leading many to believe he has now taken over the mantle from free-falling Cleveland Guardians closer Emmanuel Clase as the best closer in the majors altogether.

It's actually ridiculous just how dominating Muñoz has been in 13 appearances so far this season, with him allowing just five hits and six walks through 13.0 innings. Even more ridiculous is that he has a yet to allow even one run, which has in turn led to him being a perfect nine-for-nine in save opportunities.

The 26-year-old's stat line makes for barely believable reading, including a 0.00 ERA, 1.79 FIP and 0.846 WHIP, along with a 1.5 WAR to lead the American League. For some context, he had a career-high 2.0 WAR for all of last season.

Perhaps best summing up his success, though, is yet another unearthed gem from Mariners' media relations guru Alex Mayer:

It really is stunning to discover just how special Muñoz has been this season. It also comes as the perfect encore following on from last year, when he received the much-deserved recognition as an All-Star for the first time in his major league career.

Mariners lucky to have arguably the best reliever the majors

The clutch gene the righty seems to have is invaluable to the Mariners, particularly as they look for other dependable options out of the bullpen. (Let's GO, Matt Brash!) He really is a sight to behold and since the beginning of 2024, is first in ERA (1.35) and third in WHIP (0.825) among pitchers who have faced 200 batters in the ninth inning.

Of course, no one expects Muñoz's insane start to 2025 to continue indefinitely, but unlike other members of the Mariners he's unlikely to experience a significant drop in productivity. As far as we're concerned he is at least the best closer in all of baseball if not top reliever full stop, and long may it continue in Seattle.

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