UPDATE: In a groundbreaking move, first baseman Josh Naylor has officially signed a five-year contract with the Seattle Mariners, sources confirmed to ESPN moments ago. This key signing marks a significant step for the Mariners, who prioritized reuniting Naylor with the team after his impactful performance following a mid-season trade.
Naylor, just 28 years old, made his presence felt in Seattle last season, showcasing his skills both offensively and defensively. Over 54 games with the Mariners, he boasted an impressive batting average of .299 alongside nine home runs, 33 RBIs, and a perfect stolen base record of 19 out of 19. This contract, pending a physical, is the first major signing of baseball’s offseason and adds depth to a Mariners roster that reached the American League Championship Series.
Naylor’s contributions were vital as the Mariners clinched their first division title since 2001. His postseason performance further solidified his value; he hit .340 with three home runs in just 12 games. The Mariners are now building a formidable lineup featuring AL MVP runner-up Cal Raleigh and star center fielder Julio Rodriguez, aiming for the franchise’s first World Series title.
This signing not only strengthens the Mariners but also highlights Naylor’s exceptional abilities. Despite being one of the slower runners in the league, he astounded fans and analysts alike by successfully stealing 30 bases out of 32 attempts during the season, ranking in the third percentile for sprint speed. His aggressive style and high baseball IQ have transformed him into a fan favorite.
Originally drafted by the Miami Marlins in 2015, Naylor has seen a successful career trajectory, including an All-Star appearance while with the Cleveland Guardians in 2024. His career statistics include 104 home runs, 435 RBIs, and 55 stolen bases over seven seasons, underscoring his all-around talent.
With the Mariners looking to capitalize on last season’s success, all eyes will be on Naylor as he prepares for the upcoming season. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how this deal will impact the Mariners’ chances at a championship. Stay tuned for more updates as the offseason progresses and the Mariners continue to build their roster.
