The Seattle Mariners faced a critical decision during a playoff game that many now view as a turning point in the team’s history. On October 13, 2025, during a seventh-inning at-bat, relief pitcher Eduard Bazardo was brought in to face George Springer with runners on second and third and only one out. At that moment, the Mariners led the game 3-1.
The decision to use Bazardo instead of closer Andrés Muñoz sparked widespread discussion and criticism within the baseball community. With new insights coming to light, the choice has been scrutinized further, leading many to believe that it was a significant mistake.
Impact of Familiarity on the Outcome
Eno Sarris, a writer for The Athletic, provided an analysis that highlighted one crucial factor in the at-bat: familiarity. Bazardo had already faced Springer twice in the series, including the previous night, when Springer grounded out. This repetition may have given Springer an advantage, as statistics reveal that batters who face a reliever multiple times in the postseason tend to perform better.
According to data from STATS Perform, since 2016, a batter’s OPS has surged by over 140 points after seeing a reliever for the third time in a playoff series. This suggests that experience increases a batter’s likelihood of success against a pitcher.
Bazardo’s Pitching Strategy
- Bazardo primarily used inside sinkers against Springer in previous at-bats.
- Springer capitalized on this knowledge, hitting a three-run homer off Bazardo.
- This particular at-bat mirrored the previous night’s encounter, highlighting Springer’s growing comfort.
Missed Opportunity with Muñoz
It is worth noting that Springer had never faced Muñoz during the series and had a poor record against him in the regular season—he was 0-for-3 with two strikeouts. This raises questions about the strategic decision to avoid using Muñoz in such a critical moment.
Many argue that clinging to traditional baseball thinking about when closers should pitch may have cost the Mariners dearly. The overwhelming evidence suggests that optimal strategy should have prevailed, potentially leading to a vastly different outcome in the game.
In summary, the Mariners’ choice to rely on Bazardo instead of Muñoz during a pivotal at-bat against Springer is now viewed more critically. As more analysis emerges, the Mariners’ decision is increasingly recognized as a contributing factor to a frustrating postseason exit.
