UPDATE: The Seattle Mariners have just announced a major offseason move, re-signing first baseman Josh Naylor to a five-year contract as the 2025-26 MLB offseason heats up. This pivotal signing, confirmed earlier today, marks the first significant transaction of the winter, setting the tone for the team’s ambitions heading into the new season.
The Mariners made it clear that bringing Naylor back was their top priority after a heartbreaking exit in the 2025 ALCS. With this deal, they are signaling their commitment to building a competitive roster aimed at a World Series run in 2026.
Naylor’s return is crucial for Seattle, which has struggled to find a consistent first baseman since trading John Olerud in 2004. Naylor joined the Mariners mid-season from Arizona and quickly made his mark, hitting .299 with nine home runs and 33 RBIs across 54 games. His overall performance in 2025, including his time with the Diamondbacks, saw him finish with a solid .295/.353/.462 line and 20 home runs.
T-Mobile Park has proven to be a challenging environment for hitters, but Naylor has excelled there, boasting a career batting average of .304 in 43 games played at the venue. Importantly, Naylor is a high-contact player, ranking in the 17th percentile for strikeout rates in 2025, making him an asset in a lineup prone to whiffs.
Despite not being a superstar—his 3.1 WAR this past season being a career high—Naylor’s consistency and ability to drive in runs make him a reliable option for the Mariners as they look to capitalize on their recent success. His contract runs through his age 33 season, presenting some risk at the end, but the Mariners believe he is essential for their long-term plans.
Fans and analysts alike are reacting positively to this deal. ESPN’s David Schoenfield emphasized the importance of keeping Naylor in Seattle, a move that should bolster the team’s chances in the upcoming season. As the offseason progresses, baseball enthusiasts are encouraged to stay tuned for more updates on trades and signings that will shape the future of the league.
The Mariners’ front office has successfully initiated their offseason strategy with this signing, and fans are hopeful for more impactful moves to come. Keep an eye on this developing story as it unfolds, with updates expected as the 2025-26 MLB offseason continues to evolve.
