Williamsburg, KY – University of the Cumberlands All-American catcher, Charlie Muñiz, has signed a professional contract with the Lexington Legends of the Atlantic League on Friday. 

"Charlie has worked hard for this opportunity," said Head Coach Brad Shelton. "He is probably the most decorated player in the NAIA, at least in my 25 years. What he did for our program will never be forgotten." 

Muñiz capped off his illustrious career with one of his best seasons as a Patriot. The senior was named the Player of the Year in the NAIA for his efforts this past season, becoming the first Patriot to do so in program history. Muñiz also earned his place as a First Team All-American for the fourth consecutive season. This season, he was named the Mid-South Conference Player of the Year, Perfect Game Player of the Year, MSC First Team All-Conference, 2x NAIA Player of the Week, and was a 3x MSC Player of the Week. Muñiz recently added another trophy to his trophy case, garnering ABCA Gold Glove honors for the first time in his career. He is just the third Patriot in program history to receive this award, joining Sean Cheely (2022) and Andrew Denton (2008). 

The Naranjito, PR native led the NAIA in three offensive categories including home runs (36), runs batted in (96), and extra base hits (55). The catcher also broke numerous records including the all-time collegiate home run record, NAIA career home runs, NAIA career RBI's, and the NAIA career hits record.  
 
Behind the plate, Muñiz recorded 349 putouts and 30 assists with no errors for a perfect 1.000 fielding percentage. Muñiz also cut down 15 would-be base-stealers in the 2025 season. 

Muñiz spent four seasons at Cumberlands, putting up monster numbers each year. He shattered the record books, breaking countless program records including single season hits (100), career hits (377), career doubles (75), career home runs (115), single season home runs (36), single season RBI (101), career RBI (336), and career games played (238).  

Muñiz transferred from Southwestern Community College before arriving at UC.  

"The Legends have a history of sending guys to the MLB. We are so excited that Charlie will be starting his professional career where we can go watch him play and begin his journey to the major leagues." 
 

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