The Seattle Mariners have officially signed first baseman Josh Naylor to a lucrative five-year contract worth $92.5 million. The deal includes a $6.5 million signing bonus, with subsequent yearly salaries of $10 million in the upcoming season, $16 million in 2027, $18 million in 2028, $20 million in 2029, and $22 million in 2030. Naylor’s contract also grants him a full no-trade clause, giving him the power to veto any potential trades to other teams.
After becoming a free agent following a successful season with the Mariners, Naylor’s re-signing became a top priority for the team’s management. Mariners president of baseball operations, Jerry Dipoto, emphasized Naylor’s value to the team, praising his attributes such as intelligence, intensity, toughness, and competitiveness. Dipoto expressed his satisfaction with securing Naylor’s long-term commitment to the Mariners, highlighting his winning mentality.
Naylor, a 28-year-old player from Mississauga, Ont., made a significant impact during his time with the Mariners, impressing both on and off the field. In his brief stint with the franchise, Naylor showcased his skills, contributing to the team’s performance with a batting average of .299, nine home runs, 33 RBIs, and 19 stolen bases in 54 games. During the postseason, he continued his strong performance with a batting average of .340, three home runs, five RBIs, and two stolen bases in 12 games.
Reflecting on his experience with the Mariners, Naylor expressed his excitement about continuing to play for the team. He commended the organization, his teammates, and the passionate fanbase in Seattle, labeling them as the best in baseball. Naylor affirmed his dedication to helping the team succeed and bring a championship to the city.
The contract with Naylor marks one of the Mariners’ significant financial commitments, following previous deals for players like Robinson Cano and Robbie Ray. Manager Dan Wilson also praised Naylor’s influence on the team, highlighting his drive, intensity, and winning attitude as valuable assets to the club’s success.