MLB trade rumors: Naylor signs 5-year, $92.5M Mariners deal, first domino falls

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By: Michael Brown

Josh Naylor shook up the MLB free agency market on November 17, 2025. The 26-year-old first baseman signed a 5-year, $92.5 million deal with the Seattle Mariners. This massive contract marks the first domino falling in an explosive offseason. It’s a game-changing move that’ll reshape the entire trade landscape.

🔥 Quick Facts:

  • Josh Naylor signed a 5-year, $92.5M contract with the Mariners
  • Includes a full no-trade clause protecting the Canadian first baseman
  • Average annual value of $18.5 million per year
  • Ranked #15 free agent entering the 2025-26 offseason
  • First major domino sets tone for remaining signings and trades

What Naylor’s Deal Means for Seattle

The Mariners acted decisively to retain their best performer. Naylor was traded to Seattle at the 2025 trade deadline. He became a postseason hero during their playoff run. The team committed premium dollars to keep him long-term.

Jerry DiPoto, the Mariners’ general manager, rarely signs players to multi-year deals. This contract breaks a 10-year pattern at the organization. His willingness to go big shows Seattle’s championship intentions.

“Re-signing Naylor is the first major domino to fall, and it now remains to be seen if either Polanco or Suarez can also be retained.”

MLB Trade Rumors, November 17, 2025

Naylor brings proven hitting ability to the middle of the lineup. At just 26 years old, he’s entering his prime years. The contract ensures stability and offensive production through 2030.

The Domino Effect Begins

This signing could trigger a cascade of moves across baseball. Other teams now face pressure to act quickly. The market premium for elite free agents increases when any top-tier player signs a big deal.

Player Rankings Position Status
Kyle Tucker – #1 FA Outfielder Unsigned
Alex Bregman – #2 FA Third Base Unsigned
Kyle Schwarber – #5 FA Outfielder/DH Unsigned
Josh Naylor – #15 FA First Base SIGNED 5yr/$92.5M

The 2025-26 offseason features elite talent available. Pete Alonso leads the first baseman market. Naylor’s deal sets expectations for what similar players will command.

Teams with deep pockets will act fast. Each signing raises the asking price for remaining free agents. This chain reaction could reshape roster construction across baseball.

What to Watch For

  • Polanco and Suarez signings – Both star Mariners could join Naylor in Seattle
  • Pete Alonso free agency – Will he command $100M+ annually from his next team?
  • Yankees movesNew York lost Juan Soto recently and needs stars
  • Trade deadline activity – Rising prices force some teams toward trades instead
  • Competitive balance – Will big markets dominate this offseason’s signings?

Will Other Teams Scramble to Keep Their Stars?

The Mariners’ commitment sets a tone for the entire league. Budget-conscious teams face a choice. They can match offers and lock up talent, or watch stars walk away.

Seattle’s aggressive spending demonstrates championship-building priorities. The team believes Josh Naylor is worth long-term investment. This investment sends shockwaves through November negotiations.

Over the next two weeks, expect announcements for top-tier free agents. The hot stove league will heat up dramatically. Naylor’s deal lit the match that ignites this offseason explosion. Are your favorite team’s stars next?

Sources

  • MLB.com – Official coverage of Naylor free agency and Mariners signing
  • ESPN – Breaking news of 5-year contract extension details
  • MLB Trade Rumors – Analysis of domino effect on remaining free agents

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