Seattle Mariners closer Andrés Muñoz was named the best closer for the start of the 2025 MLB season, earning American League Reliever of the Month of March/April. His performance has been a key factor for the Mariners early in the season.
The right-hander posted a 0.00 earned run average through the first month of play. He appeared in 16 innings, recording 20 strikeouts and allowing no runs.
Muñoz leads the Liga Americana with 12 saves. His effectiveness has made him a fixture in high-leverage situations for the Mariners in Grandes Ligas.
Away from the field, Muñoz presents a demeanor described as gentle. This contrast with his intense presence on the mound has drawn comment during public appearances, including on MLB Network.
His personality is particularly evident in his strong affection for animals. This passion recently led him to engage with a local animal welfare organization.
Muñoz visited the Seattle Area Feline Rescue (SAFR) in Shoreline, Washington. He spent time learning about the work involved in caring for rescue cats.
He also contributed to the shelter's fundraising efforts. Muñoz provided an experience package, including game tickets and a meeting, for SAFR to auction.
Muñoz, who hails from Los Mochis, Mexico, expressed comfort with his adopted baseball home city. "I love everything about Seattle," Munoz said. "That is why it feels like my second home... I just feel very comfortable here. Hopefully we can do something so I can stay here all the time, because I would love to be here my whole career."
His pitching repertoire this season includes a high-velocity fastball that reaches over 100 miles per hour and an effective slider.
This performance builds on his recent success, which included being selected for the All-Star Game in 2024.
Other Mexican players also made notable contributions recently in MLB. Catcher Alejandro Kirk recorded his first walk-off hit of the season for the Toronto Blue Jays. Jonathan Aranda of the Tampa Bay Rays continues to hit effectively, placing among league leaders in batting average for a time.
Ramón Urías of the Baltimore Orioles was recently placed on the injured list due to a leg injury, interrupting a solid start to his season.
