Mariners Re-Sign Naylor to Five-Year Deal, Kickstart Offseason

UPDATE: The Seattle Mariners have officially re-signed first baseman Naylor to a five-year deal, marking a pivotal moment in the 2025-26 MLB offseason. This significant move comes just after the Mariners’ heartbreaking loss in the ALCS, making it clear that retaining Naylor was a top priority for the franchise.

With this signing, the Mariners aim to solidify their roster as they pursue World Series aspirations for 2026. Naylor, who previously joined the team from Arizona, electrified the Mariners down the stretch last season, hitting .299/.341/.490 with nine home runs and 33 RBIs in just 54 games. Overall, he finished the 2025 season with a robust .295/.353/.462, showcasing his value as a reliable middle-order hitter.

The Mariners have struggled to find a long-term solution at first base for nearly two decades. This signing is seen as a much-needed relief for fans, as the franchise has not boasted a first baseman with a respectable OPS since trading John Olerud back in 2004. Naylor’s performance, which included a 2.2 WAR score, positions him as a safe bet for the future.

At T-Mobile Park, Naylor has thrived, achieving a batting average of .304 across 43 career games. His ability to make contact is crucial for a Mariners lineup known for its strikeouts; he finished with one of the league’s best strikeout rates in 2025. Despite not being the fastest player on the field, Naylor’s defensive metrics have consistently ranked above average.

Next Steps: As the offseason progresses, fans and analysts will be watching closely to see how this signing influences the Mariners’ strategy moving forward. With Naylor locked in through his age 33 season, the Mariners are poised to build a competitive team for the upcoming season.

This news is developing and will be updated as more details emerge. Fans can follow along for more analysis and insights from experts like David Schoenfield at ESPN.