On Tuesday in Seattle, the Seattle Mariners secured an 8-3 victory over the Chicago White Sox, with new acquisition Josh Naylor playing a key role in the win. Naylor’s performance included not only a crucial two-run home run but also a historic base-running achievement that has set a new franchise precedent.
Naylor, who plays first base, connected on a home run that accounted for the Mariners’ final runs in the game, complementing a two-run homer by third baseman Eugenio Suarez, who gave the Mariners an early 3-1 lead. Before his powerful hit, Naylor impressed with his base-stealing prowess, notably during a pivotal moment in the sixth inning.
Historic Double Steal Highlights Naylor’s Skillset
In the sixth inning, Josh Naylor drew a walk and stole second base, followed shortly by Eugenio Suarez drawing a walk as well. The duo executed a rare double steal, advancing each 90 feet on the bases before both scored on a two-RBI single by Jorge Polanco. This aggressive base running energized the Mariners’ offense and widened their lead.
That was a really smart play by Josh,
Suarez remarked.
I followed him, I played with him (with the Diamondbacks) this year. That’s how he plays the game. If you give him the chance, he’s gonna steal the base. And I followed him.
—Eugenio Suarez, Third Baseman
The double steal gave Naylor two steals in a single inning, raising his season total to 19. This nearly doubles his previous career-high of 10 stolen bases, which he set in 2023 while playing for the Cleveland Guardians. According to Mariners PR notes, Naylor is the first first baseman in franchise history to record multiple games with at least two stolen bases.
Unlikely Base-Stealing Threat Despite Physical Profile
Standing 5-foot-10 and weighing 235 pounds, Naylor defies traditional expectations for a base-stealer. His sprint speed ranks in the third percentile of MLB players, as recorded by Baseball Savant, highlighting how his success on the bases is not based on raw speed. Instead, his intelligence and timing create opportunities for stealing bases effectively.
Suarez credits Naylor’s thoughtful approach to base running for his success.
I think he’s got better jumps,
Suarez said.
He (doesn’t) look that fast, but he’s always smart. He knows when to go. He reads the pitcher, he knows what kind of pitch he might be throwing in that situation right there, and he (gets) a really good jump every time.
—Eugenio Suarez, Third Baseman
Naylor’s Versatility Adds Significant Value to the Mariners
Josh Naylor is widely regarded as one of baseball’s most balanced players. Seattle acquired him for his disciplined hitting and potential to consistently hit 25-30 home runs a season. Now, with his emerging ability to steal bases efficiently, Naylor brings an additional dimension to the Mariners’ offense that could prove crucial as they pursue a playoff spot.
The Mariners’ lineup benefited greatly from contributions beyond Naylor’s performance, with five players achieving multiple hits and three home runs overall. This offensive momentum helped seal the team’s decisive win over the White Sox.
As the season progresses, Naylor’s rare combination of power and base-running savvy could be a key factor in the Mariners’ postseason ambitions, creating an impact that goes beyond traditional expectations for a first baseman.