The MLB offseason is officially heating up. After last week’s GM meetings in Las Vegas, the first big-name free agent appears to be off the board.
According to multiple reports on Sunday, first baseman Josh Naylor is returning to the Seattle Mariners on a five-year deal. The contract’s total value is still unconfirmed at the time of writing, but it’s expected to be around $90 million or $100 million.
Naylor, 28, was traded from the Arizona Diamondbacks to the Mariners on July 24. The Boston Red Sox were reportedly eyeing him at the time as a potential replacement at first base for the injured Triston Casas, but later acquired Nate Lowe instead.
The 2024 All-Star flourished for Seattle down the stretch, batting .299/.341/.490 with nine home runs. 33 RBI, 19 stolen bases and 2.2 WAR in 54 games. He thrived during the Mariners’ playoff run as well, slashing .340/.392/.574 with 16 hits in 12 postseason games.
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While Seattle’s season ended in heartbreaking fashion in Game 7 of the ALCS, Naylor apparently liked his time there and quickly became a fan favorite. He’ll look to build on his strong finish to 2025 next season and try to help the Mariners reach the World Series for the first time in franchise history.
While Naylor would have been a good fit for the Red Sox, who are seeking a middle-of-the-order bat this offseason, he is now off the table. They may have to pivot to other, likely pricier options such as Pete Alonso or Kyle Schwarber.
Featured image via Dan Hamilton/Imagn Images
