UPDATE: In a significant move for the upcoming MLB season, first baseman Josh Naylor has officially signed a five-year contract with the Seattle Mariners, sources report. This deal reunites Naylor with the team that made his re-signing a top priority, marking the first major signing of the baseball offseason.
Naylor, a pivotal player acquired by the Mariners at the trade deadline, showcased his talent in 54 games with the team, batting an impressive .299/.341/.490 while hitting nine home runs and driving in 33 RBIs. His 19 stolen bases in 19 attempts demonstrate his unique aggressiveness on the basepaths, even ranking among the slowest runners in the league.
This signing is crucial as the Mariners aim to build on their success from last season, where they reached the American League Championship Series for the first time in years. Naylor joins a formidable core that includes AL MVP runner-up Cal Raleigh and star center fielder Julio Rodriguez. This combination is expected to drive the Mariners toward their first-ever World Series appearance.
Naylor’s impact was felt immediately upon joining the Mariners, solidifying a previously weak position. He played a vital role in helping the Mariners claim their first division title since 2001. During postseason play, he maintained a stellar .340 batting average, hitting three home runs in just 12 games.
The 28-year-old Naylor has had a remarkable career thus far, with a combined batting line of .295/.353/.462 over 93 games with the Arizona Diamondbacks and the Mariners this past season. He achieved a career-high 3.1 WAR and ranked in the top 20 for the lowest strikeout rate among qualified batters.
Naylor’s success was not just limited to his bat. He demonstrated considerable skill as a defender at first base, contributing to the Mariners’ overall success. His ability to steal bases, despite his low sprint speed, adds another layer to his game. He successfully stole 30 out of 32 bases throughout the season, showcasing his strategic base-running skills.
Originally drafted in the first round by the Miami Marlins in 2015, Naylor has consistently proven his worth on the field. He has hit 104 home runs and driven in 435 RBIs over his seven-year career, appearing in four postseason series, including an All-Star selection in 2024.
As the Mariners gear up for the next season, Naylor’s return is a beacon of hope for fans eager for a championship. Stay tuned for more updates as the Mariners continue to shape their roster for a promising future.
