Catcher Mike Zunino has lived life on the fast track from the moment he signed with the Seattle Mariners last July. Never has there been a doubt where he’s headed; the only mystery has been when he’s going to get there.

With Zunino in Tacoma, one stop away from the majors, that question is becoming ever more prominent – particularly since he has started his Triple-A career with a vengeance: four home runs and 18 runs batted in during his first seven games.

Throw in the early-season struggles of players like Jesus Montero and Justin Smoak, and there’s already a clamor among some Mariners fans for Zunino.

Just about the only one who’s not buzzing about when Zunino will get the call is Zunino himself. But that should not be a surprise; just 22, Zunino has already displayed a wisdom beyond his years.