New York Mets 2009 Rundown: Carlos Muniz

A 13th-round draft pick out of Long Beach State in 2003, Carlos Muniz has never really been considered a valued prospect. In fact, he doesn't even make the cut on any of the major organizational top-prospect lists.

Quite simply, Muniz is just a guy who does the same thing every single time; he just pitches.

Perhaps, the most intriguing thing about Muniz has absolutely nothing to do with what he brings to the table. What has gotten him this far, through the ranks, is his composure and consistency.

He never tries to do too much to a hitter. He just stays within himself and puts the ball where the catcher wants it.  

Muniz' repertoire consists of an average MLB fastball (88-90 mph) that he will spot consistently under the hands of right-handed batters, a below-average slider (84-86 mph) that he uses against both lefties and righties as a finishing pitch, and a below-average changeup (82-83 mph) that he commands very well in any count. 

While showing success in the minor leagues, Muniz has struggled so far with the big club—posting a 5.67 ERA in 25 2/3 innings.

The problem may be his age and inexperience, but because he just doesn't have the "stuff" of a major league pitcher, his chance of success in the big leagues is very slim. If only he threw 95 miles-per-hour.

Because Muniz started last season in Triple-A New Orleans and did quite well throughout the season, he will most likely make the big-league bullpen this spring and be given a shot to gain some experience.

However, don't expect anything great out of him, as he will probably only be seen in situations where the game is out of reach for either team.   

2008 Stats:

AAA- 33 G, 2-4, 3.93 ERA, 36 2/3 IP, 31 SO, 1.20 WHIP

MLB- 18 G, 1-1, 5.40 ERA, 23 1/3 IP, 16 SO, 1.33 WHIP

2009 Prediction:

MLB-28 G, 1-3, 5.65 ERA, 34 2/3 IP, 25 SO, 1.34 WHIP