The Cleveland Guardians made the decision to part ways with Josh Naylor in the offseason, sending him to the Arizona Diamondbacks. This move may seem surprising, especially with Naylor’s performance as one of the better-hitting first basemen in Major League Baseball, currently boasting a .294 batting average, 11 home runs, and 58 RBIs.
As the Diamondbacks face a challenging season marred by injuries, there is speculation that they could become sellers in the trade market. Naylor finds himself as a potential trade asset, with predictions suggesting he might be moved again, particularly to the Seattle Mariners as the trade deadline approaches. Following a sweep against the Detroit Tigers, the Mariners have gained momentum and may look to bolster their lineup by acquiring a capable first baseman like Naylor.
The Mariners’ current first basemen rank 18th in the league for OPS at .703, pointing to the need for improvement in their batting lineup. Naylor, who is on an expiring contract, presents an appealing option as he could be brought on board without a significant long-term financial commitment. This flexibility would allow the Mariners to assess Naylor’s fit with the team without being tied down to a costly contract if the partnership doesn’t pan out.
As the MLB trade deadline approaches, the Mariners are in a strong position to make strategic moves to enhance their competitiveness, particularly by addressing their offensive shortcomings, and adding a talent like Naylor could prove beneficial for their playoff aspirations.
The potential for Naylor to join a contending team is exciting, not only for the Mariners but also for Naylor himself, as he seeks to make a significant impact in the remainder of the season. This transition, if it occurs, would not only open new opportunities for Naylor but could also invigorate both teams involved in the trade.