The atmosphere in Seattle was key for Josh Naylor, who felt completely comfortable during his three months with the Mariners. The presence of a furry friend, Tucker, the team’s Labrador retriever, was a decisive factor in his adaptation.
Naylor, after signing a $92.5 million five-year contract, expressed his affection for Seattle, a feeling that is mutual. The 28-year-old player, acquired from the Diamondbacks before the 2025 trade deadline, performed remarkably with the Mariners. He batted .299, hit nine home runs, drove in 33 runs, and stole 19 bases in 54 games. Naylor connected with the Seattle fans, not only for his gritty play, but also for giving his shoes to the children.When I knew we had Tucker, I was completely convinced. I love that little friend.
Josh Naylor
Seattle reached Game 7 of the American League Championship Series, one win away from their first World Series. With an outstanding performance in the postseason, Naylor felt he had unfinished business in Seattle.I always tell the players, or even the kids I work with in the offseason, to play for the kid inside them. Always remember that this is just a game, and they are here to have fun, play hard, and compete.
Josh Naylor
Jerry Dipoto, president of baseball operations, is confident that Naylor will be key to winning the first World Series for the franchise, calling his return a simple decision.I wanted to come back to give this fanbase, this city, my teammates and their families a World Series in the next five years, or several World Series or pennants.
Josh Naylor
Naylor didn’t feel the need to test the open market. He trusted the Mariners’ core and not having to face Seattle’s starting pitchers in the near future. Now, Naylor will have the privilege of batting behind Cal Raleigh and Julio Rodríguez, who finished second and sixth in the MVP voting. Staying in Seattle means a lot to Naylor, who became a father this year. With several members of his family present at the press conference, Naylor spoke about his desire to settle down in the Emerald City.This was the simplest decision we could make as an organization. The way Josh integrated into our locker room, into the community, the way the fans embraced him.
Jerry Dipoto
Naylor’s biggest motivation is to win, something that has been constant in his seven-year career in the Major Leagues.I would really love to spend the rest of my career here and start a family here, and have my family come to Seattle more often and watch baseball games and, hopefully, win a World Series here.
Josh Naylor
This is not over, in my opinion. We have much more to do and it’s exciting not only for them, but for me and for the whole city. The teammates we have here, I think it will be an incredible offseason.
Josh Naylor
