UPDATE: The Seattle Mariners have made a significant move in the 2025-26 MLB offseason by re-signing first baseman Josh Naylor to a five-year contract. This deal marks the first big signing of the winter and sets the stage for an exciting offseason.
The Mariners, coming off a heartbreaking Game 7 loss in the ALCS, prioritized bringing Naylor back, and they’ve backed their intentions with a substantial contract. The announcement comes just hours after the offseason officially began, igniting excitement among fans and analysts alike.
Naylor’s contract reflects his vital role in the Mariners’ lineup. After joining Seattle at the trade deadline from Arizona, he became a key contributor, posting a remarkable .299 batting average, along with nine home runs and 33 RBIs in just 54 games. His overall performance in the 2025 season ended with a solid .295 batting average and 20 home runs, demonstrating his potential as a long-term solution at first base for a team that has struggled in that position for nearly two decades.
The Mariners have faced challenges attracting free-agent hitters to T-Mobile Park, but Naylor’s success at the venue has been impressive. He has hit .304 with a .534 slugging percentage in his 43 career games there, further solidifying the decision to secure his talents.
What makes Naylor’s signing particularly meaningful for the Mariners is his ability to make contact. With the team’s lineup historically heavy on strikeouts, his high-contact rate is a welcome addition. In 2025, he ranked in just the seventh percentile for chase rate but still maintained a near-league-average walk rate, showcasing his discipline at the plate.
Despite not being a star, Naylor’s consistency has proven vital, with a career-high 3.1 WAR last season. His unique combination of skills makes him a dependable player as the Mariners set their sights on a World Series run in 2026. The front office and fans alike are expected to be pleased with this re-signing, as they aim to build a competitive roster.
As the offseason unfolds, MLB experts, including ESPN’s Bradford Doolittle and David Schoenfield, will continue to provide updates and evaluations of all major moves. Follow along closely for the latest insights and analyses as the winter progresses.
Stay tuned, as this story will be updated with more developments throughout the offseason. Fans are encouraged to share this news as the Mariners gear up for what promises to be an exciting season ahead!
