Andrés Muñoz consistently draws strength and guidance from the experienced players around him, especially J.P. Crawford, Seattle Mariners’ longest-serving member. Crawford’s presence on the mound during games provides Muñoz with crucial support and calm reassurance as he tackles high-pressure situations.
Muñoz described Crawford’s influence at the Mariners spring training complex by saying,
“He’s really calm. He transmits that to you. He gives me a lot of confidence. He just goes straight to the point. He’s like, ‘hey compa (friend), relax.’ I am somebody who respects a lot the (service) time people have. I listen to everybody, but we have to respect the time they have because they have earned respect.”
Being here for a lot of time is hard. They’ve been here a lot more time than me, we have to respect it.
Muñoz’s Journey and Growing Experience in MLB
Muñoz began his tenure with the Mariners’ major league camp in 2022 at age 24, after recovering from two seasons lost to injury. Since then, he has appeared in 240 MLB games, earned selection to two All-Star teams, and contributed in two postseasons while allowing only one run in 11 playoff appearances. Despite six years of service time and achievements rivaling those of veterans like Crawford, Muñoz remains modest about considering himself a seasoned player.
When asked if he feels like a veteran now, he replied, “Not really.” He added,
Obviously I feel with more experience, I’ve been for a little bit in the big leagues, I feel I have been learning a lot. The important thing is I have been asking questions. I have been learning from people who have played longer. I think that is why I have felt better now is I know a little bit more about myself. I have been learning a lot about how to handle the ninth inning, what I do in different situations, what I can do to fix something when it goes wrong.
The Importance of Ongoing Learning and Mentorship
Muñoz’s perspective emphasizes continual learning and the value of guidance from more experienced players. Alongside Crawford, he credits Luis Castillo as another key influence who shares a similar mindset. Muñoz frequently turns to Castillo for support when things feel off during the season.
I talk with him the most,
Muñoz said of Castillo.
As soon as I feel something is not right, I just go to him and he helps me a lot in the season.
His learning extends beyond his own team; Muñoz often connects with rival pitchers during or after batting practice, engaging openly to gain insights and improve his game.
“It’s the way to learn,” he explained.
I am really thankful for everybody who is open to teach. Some people might think that is bad; actually it is not. We have a really good communication, a really good relationship with everybody. They are open to teach and I am open to learn. That’s really good.
Valuable Conversations with Top Relievers Across the League
No opposing player has ever refused Muñoz’s questions, and he has gained notable advice from Carlos Estévez in Kansas City, Josh Hader in Houston, and Aroldis Chapman in Boston. Muñoz still admires Chapman and recalls a meaningful conversation they shared.
Chapman, I am still a fan,
he said.
I just look at the way he is, really simple. I remember one time when I texted him, I didn’t feel right, I didn’t feel good. We talked for a half hour. We talked about what I should do in situations, what I should do on off days. When experience talks, we have to listen.
Support Network Extending Beyond the Field
The foundation supporting Muñoz’s rise as one of baseball’s most formidable closers begins at home and extends into the clubhouse and beyond, forming a close-knit fraternity dedicated to winning. Integral to his development are Mariners pitching director Trent Blank and pitching coach Pete Woodworth, who have guided him for several years.
The way that Trent Blank and Woody help us is awesome,
Muñoz shared.
They have been my coach for 4-5 years and they have been awesome for me. Really important in my career. I have to give a lot of credit to them because they maintain me in the same mind. I am really happy to have them here. They are really smart and they know how to handle situations. When we go in a different direction, they get us back.
Commitment to Preparation and Team Mexico
Muñoz’s dedication to his craft was evident as he remained with the Mariners longer than any other player participating in the World Baseball Classic, preferring to continue his training with the club before joining Team Mexico. On the day he left, he exchanged fist bumps with teammates and staff, appreciating the support around him.
