UPDATE: The Seattle Mariners have made a significant splash in the 2025-26 MLB offseason by re-signing infielder Naylor to a five-year deal, marking the first major move of the winter. This urgent announcement comes just after their heartbreaking loss in Game 7 of the ALCS, highlighting the Mariners’ commitment to building a competitive roster for the upcoming season.
Naylor’s return is vital for a team that has struggled to find a reliable first baseman for nearly two decades. The front office prioritized re-signing him, showcasing their determination to retain a player who electrified the lineup after joining from the Arizona Diamondbacks mid-season. Naylor finished the 2025 season with impressive stats, hitting .295/.353/.462 and tallying 20 home runs across both teams.
The Mariners have been in desperate need of a long-term solution at first base since trading John Olerud in 2004. Since then, they have had the lowest OPS from first basemen, except for the Pittsburgh Pirates, making Naylor’s signing even more crucial. His performance post-trade was stellar, as he boasted a .299 batting average with nine home runs and 33 RBIs in just 54 games for Seattle.
The urgency of this move cannot be overstated, given the competitive nature of the league. Naylor’s high contact rate and ability to avoid strikeouts make him an ideal fit for a Mariners lineup that has struggled with strikeouts in recent years. He ranked in the 17th percentile for strikeout rate among qualified hitters in 2025, proving his value as a consistent player in the order.
In addition to his offensive prowess, Naylor’s defensive metrics have been above average for the last four seasons. Even though he’s not the fastest player on the field, his ability to steal bases—30 stolen bases out of 32 attempts—demonstrates his versatility and athleticism.
The Mariners’ front office is optimistic about this signing as they aim for a successful run in the 2026 season. While there may be some concerns about the latter years of the contract, Naylor provides a dependable option as the team gears up for a World Series push. Mariners fans can look forward to seeing Naylor in action as part of a revamped roster next season.
As the offseason progresses, all eyes will be on the Mariners to see how this signing influences their strategies moving forward. This deal sets the tone for what promises to be an exciting and transformative winter for MLB teams. Stay tuned for more updates on the latest trades and signings, as ESPN MLB experts will continue to evaluate each move in real-time.