Seattle Mariners fans have reason to celebrate: fan-favorite first baseman Josh Naylor is officially staying put. The 28-year-old slugger is finalizing a five-year contract with the Mariners, sources confirm, locking him into the heart of Seattle’s lineup for the foreseeable future.
A Blockbuster Reunion
Naylor’s return to Seattle marks a major offseason move for the Mariners, who made re-signing the first baseman their top priority after his impactful three-month stint in 2025. According to reports from ESPN’s Jeff Passan and MLB.com, the deal is pending a physical but is expected to be completed soon. Naylor was traded to Seattle from the Arizona Diamondbacks in late July and quickly became a key piece of the team’s playoff push.
2025: A Career Year
Naylor’s 2025 campaign was nothing short of spectacular. Across 147 regular-season games split between Arizona and Seattle, he posted a .295 batting average, 20 home runs, 92 RBI, 81 runs scored, and a career-high 30 stolen bases. His ability to hit for both power and average, combined with his surprising speed on the basepaths, made him one of the most dynamic first basemen in baseball.
With the Mariners, Naylor hit .299 with nine homers and 33 RBI in just 54 games, solidifying his reputation as a clutch performer. His offensive prowess was on full display during the postseason, where he scored the team’s first run and collected three hits in both Games 4 and 5 of the ALDS against the Detroit Tigers.
Why Seattle Wanted Him Back
Mariners general manager Justin Hollander made it clear from the outset of free agency that Naylor was the team’s top target. “Getting Josh back was our No. 1 priority,” Hollander said in a recent interview. “He brought energy, production, and leadership to our clubhouse, and we’re thrilled to have him for the long term.”
Naylor’s versatility and consistency at the plate—especially against right-handed pitching—make him a valuable asset. He posted a .283/.334/.522 slash line against righties in 2025, and his solid strikeout (
16.1%) and walk (
7.8%) rates provide a reliable floor for his offensive production.
What’s Next for Naylor and the Mariners
With Naylor under contract for five years, the Mariners are set at first base and have a cornerstone for their offense moving forward. His ability to contribute both power and speed—despite being one of the slowest runners in baseball—makes him a unique talent in today’s game.
Naylor’s career has seen its share of ups and downs, including a season-ending injury in 2021 and a sharp decline in production after the All-Star break in 2024. But his 2025 performance suggests he’s found a new level of consistency, and Mariners fans are eager to see what he can do with a full season in Seattle.
The Big Picture
Naylor’s deal is a win-win for both player and team. For Naylor, it’s a chance to build on his breakout year in a city where he’s already a fan favorite. For the Mariners, it’s a statement that they’re committed to building a competitive roster around a core of young, dynamic talent.
As the 2026 season approaches, all eyes will be on Naylor to see if he can maintain his high level of production and help lead the Mariners back to the playoffs.
Sources
1. Josh Naylor News - RotoWire
2. Seattle News, Weather, Sports, Breaking News
3. Josh Naylor - Wikipedia
4. Latest Mariners News - Seattle - MLB.com
5. 2025 Fantasy Baseball: Josh Naylor Profile, Preview, Predictions
6. Josh Naylor Stats, Age, Position, Height, Weight, Fantasy & News
7. Josh Naylor - MLB News, Rumors, & Updates - FOX Sports
8. Yankees Potential Trade Target: Josh Naylor | Pinstripe Alley
9. Josh Naylor 2025 MLB Highlights
10. Josh Naylor, Mariners finalizing five-year contract (source) - MLB.com
11. Josh Naylor: News, Stats, Bio, & More - NBC Sports
12. Josh Naylor 2025 MLB Highlights! (Mid-Season)
13. Josh Naylor: Player News - NBC Sports
14. Josh Naylor Traded to the MARINERS! Week 19 Sleepers & Two-Start Pitchers! | Fantasy Baseball Advice
15. Josh Naylor’s Big Opportunity with the Arizona Diamondbacks | New Role, New Goals । USA TODAY NEWS
