Mariners Secure Naylor with Five-Year Deal in Offseason Kickoff

UPDATE: The Seattle Mariners have just re-signed Josh Naylor to a five-year contract, marking the first significant move of the 2025-26 MLB offseason. This urgent development solidifies the Mariners’ commitment to enhancing their lineup as they aim for a successful season ahead.

Naylor’s return is pivotal for the Mariners, who are determined to address their long-standing issues at first base. After a heartbreaking conclusion to their season in the ALCS, Mariners’ management made it clear that re-signing Naylor was a top priority. This deal, pending a physical, is a clear indication of their intentions, as they look to build on last year’s momentum.

In the 2025 season, Naylor made a significant impact, hitting .299 with nine home runs and 33 RBIs over just 54 games with Seattle. His overall performance for the year included 20 home runs and an impressive 2.2 WAR, showcasing his ability to contribute effectively to the team.

The Mariners have struggled to find a reliable first baseman for nearly two decades, making Naylor’s acquisition even more crucial. The last successful long-term solution at the position was John Olerud, traded back in 2004. Despite previous attempts, including brief stints from players like Ty France, the team has consistently underperformed at first base.

Naylor’s ability to hit consistently at T-Mobile Park—where he boasts a career batting average of .304—is particularly valuable. He ranks highly in contact rates, finishing with the 17th-best strikeout rate among qualified hitters in 2025. His unique playing style, combining high contact with impressive speed on the bases, has made him a fan favorite.

“Bringing Josh back is essential for our strategy moving forward,” said a Mariners official. “His performance and adaptability have proven crucial to our ambitions for a championship run in 2026.”

This deal runs through Naylor’s age 33 season, and while some risk exists towards the end of the contract, the Mariners are banking on his reliability to help them compete at a higher level. Fans and analysts alike are optimistic about this signing, viewing it as a positive step towards the team’s aspirations.

As the offseason progresses, expect more updates and analysis on player movements as the Mariners and other teams finalize their rosters. Stay tuned for further developments as we approach spring training!