Andrés Muñoz’s Contract Loyalty: Why He Might Finish His Career With Mariners Despite Market Value

Seattle Mariners closer Andrés Muñoz is having a career year. The team has secured him for the 2026 season by exercising a club option.

This decision locks in the star reliever for $7 million next year. It highlights both his value and a significant contract discrepancy in today’s MLB market.

A Career Year Secures His Immediate Future in Seattle

The 2025 season showcased Andrés Muñoz as one of baseball’s most dominant relievers. He posted a stellar 1.73 ERA with 38 saves and 83 strikeouts.

According to the team’s official announcement, picking up his option was an easy decision. His performance cemented his role as the Mariners’ undeniable bullpen ace.

This contract was originally signed under very different circumstances. Muñoz inked a 4-year, $7.5 million extension with Seattle in 2021 while recovering from Tommy John surgery.

He had not pitched in two years at the time. The Mariners took a chance on him, and he has repaid that faith with elite performance ever since.

Gratitude Over Market Value: A Stark Financial Contrast

The financial aspect of Muñoz’s situation is striking when compared to his peers. Elite closers now command contracts worth over $20 million annually.

For example, Edwin Díaz recently signed a 3-year, $69 million deal with the Los Angeles Dodgers. His 2025 stats were comparable to Muñoz’s outstanding numbers.

Muñoz acknowledges this market disparity. He focuses instead on the loyalty he feels toward the organization that believed in him during his rehabilitation.

“I am so grateful to them that I could finish my career with the Mariners, if they wanted,” Muñoz stated in his interview. He values the opportunity they gave him more than a potential bigger payday elsewhere.

Info at your fingertips

What is Andrés Muñoz’s contract situation for 2026?

The Seattle Mariners exercised their club option for the 2026 season. Muñoz will pitch for a salary of $7 million under the terms of his existing contract.

How did Andrés Muñoz perform in the 2025 season?

He had a phenomenal year, establishing himself as a top-tier closer. His key stats included a 1.73 ERA and 38 saves for the Mariners.

Why is Andrés Muñoz’s contract considered team-friendly?

He signed his current extension while recovering from major surgery, locking in a lower salary. His current market value is now significantly higher than his pay.

What did Andrés Muñoz say about his future with the Mariners?

He expressed deep gratitude and a desire to potentially end his career in Seattle. Muñoz stated the team gave him a chance when he needed it most.

Who acquired a much larger contract than Muñoz recently?

Closer Edwin Díaz signed a 3-year, $69 million deal with the Dodgers. This sets the current market rate for relievers of Muñoz’s elite caliber.