Last year Mike Zunino had a career year. After a disastrous first few weeks, Zu rebuilt his swing in Tacoma (again) and had a dominant second half (again). This year his start was halted again, albeit by injury this time. Since Zunino’s return from a strained oblique, he’s failed to replicate 2017’s BABIP-fueled dominance, but the 27-year-old has been as invaluable a player as any for the Mariners. The way he’s impacting this year has been less consistent at the plate, but just as remarkable as any year before him.
For Zu, as with most catchers, it starts with the defense.