Mariners' perfect Josh Naylor replacement is a $182M, 5-time All-Star, Rookie of the Year

The Seattle Mariners are coming off a magical season that nearly took them to the World Series. Their run ended just one win short, falling to the Toronto Blue Jays in Game 7 of the ALCS. This offseason promises to be pivotal for the Mariners, and Josh Naylor is a name to watch. While it has been assumed he would return, his recent comment on Cal Raleigh’s post suggests otherwise.

“My neck still hurts but it was worth it all. See you around my friend ❤️ Will always be rooting for you, God Speed!" Naylor commented.

If Naylor does leave Seattle, a prime candidate to fill the void could be Pete Alonso. The Athletic’s Jim Bowden believes the Mariners will face a challenge in pursuing him.

“Alonso became the Mets’ all-time home run leader this year (he’s now at 264) and he put together a nice rebound season after a down 2024, hitting 38 bombs and leading the National League with 41 doubles. He is beloved in Queens, and the feeling is mutual. Alonso has belted 37 or more homers in each of the last five seasons and although he’s a below-average defender at first base, he works at it and he’s durable, having played all 162 games in each of the past two seasons,” Bowden wrote.

Alonso’s own comments about his future in New York suggest he may not return.

“But again, we'll see what happens. I love it, it's great, but you can't really predict anything. And for me... I am focused on trying to put this thing across the finish line. I haven't really thought about the free agent thing until we're talking about it right now,” Alonso said. “It would be great to stay. But, again, whatever happens, happens. I can't get a crystal ball. I wish I could, but we'll see.”

Alonso would be an ideal replacement for Naylor, and his bat may even be an upgrade. Bringing him to Seattle makes sense both strategically and offensively.

The Mariners are committed to winning at a high level, which could lead them to offer Alonso more than he is seeking. In every way, Alonso fits the mold for what Seattle needs at first base.

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