Mariners Facing Decision After Josh Naylor's Personal News

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Gavin Groe | Last updated Oct 4, 2025 4:24 PM ET

Key Points

The Seattle Mariners open the ALDS against the Detroit Tigers after clinching their first AL West title since 2001.
Trade-deadline addition Josh Naylor has been a key spark, hitting .299 with nine home runs and 19 steals in 54 games.
Naylor could miss part of the series for the birth of his first child, with the baby due Saturday.

The Seattle Mariners are set to begin their postseason run on Saturday against the Detroit Tigers. After surging in September, Seattle clinched its first AL West division title since 2001, earning a first-round bye.

Much of the Mariners’ success stems from their aggressiveness at the trade deadline, notably making the first big splash by acquiring Josh Naylor from the Arizona Diamondbacks. Naylor has become a steady contributor in the heart of Seattle’s lineup, posting a .299 batting average, .341 on-base percentage, .831 OPS, nine home runs and 19 stolen bases over 54 regular-season games.

Seattle Mariners first baseman Josh Naylor (12) © John Froschauer-Imagn Images

While Naylor looks to carry that momentum into October, he’s also awaiting the birth of his first child, which could cause him to miss time in the ALDS. Naylor and his wife, Chantel Collado, are expecting the baby on Saturday, according to Adam Jude of the Seattle Times. He’s still slated to be in the lineup, but if labor begins, he’ll fly to Arizona to be with his family.

With a potential paternity list stint looming, the Mariners must decide how to handle first base in Naylor’s absence. All-Star third baseman Eugenio Suarez has been practicing at first, with rookie Ben Williamson preparing to fill in at third if Suarez shifts over. Luke Raley also remains an option, having played 31 games at first base this season as one of Seattle’s most versatile pieces.

As the ALDS begins, the Mariners will lean on their depth and adaptability to manage any lineup changes. Whether Naylor stays available or steps away temporarily, Seattle’s preparation and positional flexibility give manager Dan Wilson multiple paths to maintain offensive rhythm and defensive stability.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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