UPDATE: The Seattle Mariners have officially exercised their $7 million club option on All-Star closer Andres Munoz for the 2026 season, as reported by The Seattle Times earlier today. This strategic move comes after Munoz’s impressive performance in recent seasons, solidifying his status as one of the elite closers in Major League Baseball.
In the last two years, Munoz has accumulated 60 saves with a remarkable 1.92 ERA, while limiting opponents to a mere .160 batting average. The standout closer had a standout season in 2025, finishing with a record of 3-3 and notching 38 saves, allowing just two home runs over 62 1/3 innings. His postseason contributions were critical as he helped propel the Mariners to a dramatic Game 7 in the American League Championship Series (ALCS), pitching 8 1/3 scoreless innings.
However, the Mariners faced a tough decision in that pivotal game. With a 3-1 lead in the bottom of the seventh inning, Manager Dan Wilson opted for pitcher Eduard Bazardo instead of Munoz, a choice that backfired as George Springer hit a three-run homer, sealing the Mariners’ fate.
Munoz’s contract not only includes the $7 million option for 2026 but also features additional options of $8 million for 2027 and $10 million for 2028. His salary could increase by up to $2 million based on games finished in the preceding season, underscoring the Mariners’ commitment to their star closer.
Originally signed to a four-year, $7.5 million deal after the 2021 season, Munoz made his mark in MLB with the San Diego Padres before joining the Mariners. Following a Tommy John surgery that limited his appearances in 2021, Munoz has rebounded spectacularly, showcasing a fastball that averaged 99.9 mph upon his debut in 2019. While still hitting 98 mph, he has leaned heavily on his slider, which he threw over 50% of the time last season, achieving a stunning .109 average against.
As the Mariners look ahead, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how Munoz continues to evolve as a crucial component of their pitching lineup. The Mariners’ decision to retain Munoz signals confidence in his abilities and a determination to compete at the highest level moving forward.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as the Mariners prepare for the upcoming season.