Sat Dec 21 23:00:00 UTC 2024: **Mariners Explore Trade for Guardians’ Josh Naylor, But Deal Unlikely**
**Seattle, WA (December 20, 2024)** – The Seattle Mariners have engaged in preliminary discussions with the Cleveland Guardians regarding first baseman Josh Naylor, according to multiple reports. While a trade is not currently anticipated, the Mariners’ interest reflects their need to upgrade their offense, particularly at first base following Justin Turner’s free agency.
Naylor, 27, enjoyed a career year in 2024, hitting 31 home runs and posting a .243/.320/.456 slash line (118 wRC+). His low strikeout rate aligns with the Mariners’ stated goal of reducing strikeouts team-wide. His projected $12 million salary for 2025 also appears manageable within Seattle’s reported budget.
However, several factors suggest a trade is improbable. The Guardians, having recently re-signed ace Shane Bieber and aiming for contention in 2025, seem increasingly reluctant to part with Naylor. Reports indicate Cleveland hasn’t been impressed with offers received from other teams. Furthermore, after offloading Andrés Giménez’s contract, Cleveland is less incentivized to trade Naylor solely for payroll relief. The team would need a significant return in prospects to justify moving a player of Naylor’s caliber, especially given his potential to receive a qualifying offer next offseason.
While the Mariners have internal options like Luke Raley and prospect Tyler Locklear, neither provides the guaranteed offensive boost Naylor offers. Seattle is also considering re-signing free agents Justin Turner or Carlos Santana. However, acquiring Naylor, given his projected cost, might limit the Mariners’ ability to make other significant additions this offseason. The team’s budget constraints and existing contracts make additional trades more likely than a significant free-agent spending spree. The situation remains fluid, and while talks have occurred, a trade for Josh Naylor appears unlikely at this time.
First Piper 