The All-Star reliever is prepared to shoulder a bigger workload this postseason
SEATTLE — In Game 1 of the best-of-five American League Divisional Series between the Seattle Mariners and Detroit Tigers on Saturday, All-Star closer Andres Munoz found himself in an unusual situation.
The Mariners reliever, who finished the season with a 1.73 ERA and 38 saves in 45 opportunities across 64 outings, entered with the game tied 2-2 in the top of the ninth and retired the side in order. That wasn't abnormal for Munoz. It was what came next.
Munoz also pitched the 10th inning and struck out the final two batters he faced.
The Tigers ultimately won the game 3-2 after a go-ahead, 11th-inning single.
Two-inning outings are rare for Munoz. The last time it happened was July 18, 2019, when he was with the San Diego Padres.
Seattle manager Dan Wilson said in a pregame news conference Sunday that, despite the extra inning, he anticipates the entire bullpen being available again for Game 2 of the ALDS on Sunday.
Munoz is prepared to take the ball again if the situation calls for it.
"I'm feeling great," Munoz said in a pregame news conference Sunday. "Obviously, I feel sore — normal. I don't remember the last time I went two innings. But feel pretty good. Just ready to go and try and do my best. ... We're going to push (as much as) we can to take the win."
The Mariners have rarely deviated from how they've used Munoz this year. The seventh-year reliever, who earned his first career All-Star nod this season, has pitched primarily in the ninth inning. Most of the time to preserve a narrow lead, and almost never with Seattle trailing, even by one run.
That deliberate approach to Munoz's workload has helped prep him for the playoffs.
The reins are loosened for the postseason, but it's still not "anything goes." Fatigue and exhaustion still exist, and there is a balance between Seattle being less protective over how it uses its closer and not putting his health in jeopardy.
"They were really careful with me this year on when they use me, don't use me, in one-plus (innings)," Munoz said. "And the way that they managed my workload this year was great. It's all I can ask for, just the way that they treat me and worry about (me) every day. ... That's why I feel pretty good today."
In a perfect world, the Mariners would hardly have to use Munoz. But Seattle trails Detroit in the ALDS, and Games 3 and 4 are set to take place at Comerica Park in Detroit. There will likely be more situations where the team relies on Munoz. But he's prepared for what the postseason might hold.
"You have to be a little bit safe with what you do," Munoz said. "You don't have to do crazy things. But I feel pretty good today and if the team needs me, I'm going to be there."
First pitch in Game 2 of the ALDS is scheduled for 5:03 p.m. PT at T-Mobile Park.
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