SEATTLE — In an emotional and strategic move, the Seattle Mariners confirmed the signing of hitter Josh Naylor to a five-year contract worth approximately $92.5 million.
Not only is the big salary and long-term commitment noteworthy, but it is also a special and touching clause: The Mariners are giving Naylor a full no‑trade clause, ensuring he always feels “home” here.
The deal marks the Mariners’ number one priority in the winter transfer window, after Naylor became so committed and influential in just a few months with the team.
In 54 games with the Mariners after being acquired from the Diamondbacks, he posted a .299 average, 9 home runs, 33 RBIs, and 19 stolen bases—a solid and distinctive effort.
Not only did he shine in the regular season, but he was also a “lifer” in the postseason, with a .340 average, 3 home runs, and 5 RBIs in 12 games.
His enthusiasm, ability to stick with the lineup, and fighting spirit won over the Mariners’ management—so much so that they were “determined” to keep him with a long-term contract.
The no-trade clause was the key point that touched fans: it showed that the Mariners saw Naylor not just as an “offensive weapon,” but also as part of the family, an indispensable piece of the puzzle for the future. He was protected from a sudden move, and given the option to stay “home” in Seattle — a big leap of faith that MLB organizations rarely show to free agents.
Mariners chief baseball officer Justin Hollander has made it clear: “We really want Naylor long-term. He fits the locker room, the position, and the way we play.”
Manager Dan Wilson also praised: “You need intensity, you need a desire to win — Josh brings all of that.”
The reaction from fans has been strong. On social media, many Mariners fans expressed their joy at seeing Naylor stay long-term. One said: “Now we have a power hitter who is honest and never wants to leave Seattle.”
With this contract, Naylor will become part of the core team with Cal Raleigh and Julio Rodríguez — the main stars helping the team aim for a championship.
He wasn’t just “paid,” he was given a deep sense of trust; the Mariners were investing in both talent and people.
For Naylor, it was confirmation that Seattle wasn’t just a stopover, it was “home.” A no-trade meant stability, it meant affection, and it meant he would be appreciated — not just for his ability as a player, but for who he was.
Congratulations to Josh Naylor — and to the Mariners for a respectful and humane decision.
