Naylor Stays in Seattle: Mariners Lock Up First Baseman with $70M Deal

The Seattle Mariners have made a decisive move to solidify their lineup, signing first baseman Josh Naylor to a four-year, $70 million contract extension. The deal, which includes a club option for a fifth year, ensures that the fiery and productive slugger will remain a cornerstone of the Mariners' offense through his prime years. Naylor, who was acquired by Seattle at last season's trade deadline, quickly became a fan favorite and a critical clubhouse presence. His impressive performance down the stretch, where he hit .280 with 10 home runs in a Mariners uniform, was instrumental in the team’s push for a playoff spot.

This extension is a significant statement from the Mariners' front office, led by President of Baseball Operations Jerry Dipoto. After a 2025 season that saw them finish with a strong 90-72 record but fall just short of the postseason, Seattle is clearly focused on retaining and building upon its core talent. Naylor’s left-handed power bat provides crucial balance to a lineup that includes stars like Julio Rodríguez and Cal Raleigh. In the 2025 season, the Mariners' offense often struggled with consistency, making the retention of a reliable run-producer like Naylor a top priority. His 3.5 WAR last season ranked among the top first basemen in the American League, highlighting his value on both sides of the ball.

Naylor’s journey to this point has been defined by resilience. Originally a first-round pick by the Marlins, he was traded to the Padres and then to the Guardians, where he truly broke out. A severe leg injury in 2021 threatened his career, but he returned stronger, establishing himself as one of the most passionate and impactful players in the game. His emotional leadership and clutch hitting were hallmarks of his time in Cleveland, and he brought that same intensity to Seattle. The Mariners are not just paying for his statistics; they are investing in his presence and the winning culture he helps to cultivate.

The financial commitment to Naylor also provides clarity for the Mariners' offseason strategy. By locking up their first baseman, they can now turn their attention to other areas of need, such as reinforcing the bullpen or adding another starting pitcher to complement a rotation already featuring Logan Gilbert and George Kirby. The AL West remains one of MLB's most competitive divisions, with the Houston Astros and Texas Rangers consistently fielding formidable teams. Securing a player of Naylor's caliber is a vital step in keeping pace and aiming for a division title in 2026.

For Naylor, this contract represents the long-term security and organizational belief he has earned. He joins a team with a clear upward trajectory and a fervent fanbase eager for a deep playoff run. The combination of Naylor’s powerful swing, the dynamic talent of Julio Rodríguez, and the Mariners' strong pitching foundation creates a formidable core. This extension isn't just a transaction; it's a commitment from both player and team to chase a championship together in the Pacific Northwest.