Mariners Bolster Roster with Josh Naylor in a Bold Move
The Seattle Mariners have acquired standout first baseman Josh Naylor from the Arizona Diamondbacks in a move that marks the start of the MLB trade season. This trade bolsters Seattle’s aspirations of returning to the postseason and signals the Diamondbacks’ willingness to make more moves.
In the agreement, the Diamondbacks will receive in return pitchers’ prospects Brandyn Garcia and Ashton Izzi, reinforcing Seattle’s intention to strengthen their roster before the July 31st deadline.
The Diamondbacks, after a season start with expectations of replicating their successful 2023 campaign, are expected to be very active in the market. With several important players like Naylor, Eugenio Suárez, Merrill Kelly, and Zac Gallen, Arizona has some of the most sought-after players on the market.
Naylor, 28, is known for his ability to hit with power and his low strikeout rate, characteristics that make him attractive to many teams. So far this season, Naylor has a batting average of .292, with 11 home runs, 59 RBIs, and 49 strikeouts in 93 games.
Brandyn Garcia, 25, has proven his worth as both a starter and a reliever in the Mariners’ system. Izzi, 21, has shown great potential in the minor leagues.
The Mariners, who did not use their top prospects, are currently six games behind Houston in the American League West, but are tied with Boston for the second American League wild card spot.
