The Seattle Mariners are reportedly moving closer to finalizing a new contract for player Josh Naylor. This potential deal highlights Naylor’s impressive performance in the recent season and his growing influence on the team.
Josh Naylor’s Stealing Prowess
In the 2025 season, Naylor showcased remarkable speed on the bases by stealing 30 bases. This effort marks a significant achievement, especially considering he had previously accumulated 25 stolen bases throughout his six-year career before 2025.
Comparison with Career Stats
While Naylor’s home run count dropped by 11 compared to the previous year, his batting average saw a commendable increase. He finished the season with a .295 average, a notable jump from .243. This shift suggests he may have strategically compensated for the loss in home runs by enhancing his base-running skills.
Player Performance Insights
Naylor is not just quick; he possesses a keen ability to read pitchers. This skill contributes to his effectiveness on the bases and indicates a smart approach to base running. As a player of his stature, maintaining such a high number of stolen bases might be unusual.
- Career stolen bases before 2025: 25
- Stolen bases in 2025: 30
- Home runs in 2024: 11 less than previous year
- Batting average: .295 in 2025
- Past batting average: .243
Looking ahead, it is reasonable to speculate that Naylor might aim for around 20 stolen bases in the upcoming season. His ability to steal bases could continue to play a crucial role in his performance and the overall success of the Mariners.
