Since joining the Seattle Mariners just four games ago, Josh Naylor has already shown notable influence on the team’s performance, surprising many with his all-around contributions. The Mariners’ key acquisition before the 2025 <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/baseball/mlb/”>MLB trade deadline has demonstrated value both offensively and on the basepaths, boosting Seattle’s prospects heading into the final stretch of the season.
Strong offensive showing including a first Mariners home run
In his initial outings with Seattle, Naylor has gone 5 for 15 at the plate, maintaining a .333 batting average along with a walk. His most prominent moment came Monday during the Mariners’ 3-1 victory over the Athletics at Sutter Health Park, where Naylor launched his first home run in a Mariners uniform. The 28-year-old first baseman opened the second inning with a solo shot to right field, setting the tone early in the game.
Unexpected base-running aggression adds new dimension
Naylor’s impact extended beyond hitting, revealing an unexpected threat on the bases. In the fourth inning of the same game, after a leadoff single, Naylor swiped second base and advanced to third on an errant throw by Athletics first baseman Nick Kurtz following a pickoff attempt by pitcher JP Sears. This aggressive base-running resulted in Naylor scoring his second run of the day on a sacrifice fly by teammate Mitch Garver, illustrating his keen awareness and versatility despite limited speed.
Speed metrics contrast with base-stealing success
Though standing 5-foot-10 and weighing 235 pounds, Naylor ranks in the third percentile of MLB players in sprint speed according to Statcast, a low position generally unfavorable for base stealing. Nevertheless, he has already recorded four stolen bases with the Mariners this season, boosting his total to 15 and surpassing his previous career high of 10 steals set in 2023. This unexpected base-stealing ability adds a new dimension to the Mariners’ offensive arsenal.
Improved performance against left-handed pitchers
Naylor’s effectiveness against left-handed pitching, previously a relative weakness, has improved with Seattle. Before joining the Mariners, the left-handed hitter owned a .244 batting average, .679 on-base plus slugging (OPS), and a 77 tOPS+ against lefties. This season, those figures have risen to a .276 average, .705 OPS, and 74 tOPS+. Of his five hits in a Mariners uniform so far, four have come against left-handed pitchers, including Monday’s home run, demonstrating his adaptability and value in various lineup situations.
Adapting smoothly after midseason team change
Midseason trades often disrupt player momentum, but Naylor has not shown any signs of adjustment issues. Unlike Randy Arozarena, who experienced an uneven start with Seattle following last year’s trade from Tampa Bay, Naylor has quickly settled in and contributed immediately. His smooth transition alleviates potential concerns about how the trade might affect his on-field performance.
Next steps for Naylor and the Mariners
As the Mariners continue their series against the Athletics with a game scheduled Tuesday night in Sacramento, Naylor’s presence remains a key factor to watch. His blend of offensive production and surprising base-stealing threat could influence Seattle’s game strategy moving forward, while the team’s front office looks to leverage his acquisition for further roster improvements during the trade deadline period.