On July 27, the Mariners activate Josh Naylor for their series finale vs. the Angels. With Naylor and Cal Raleigh's power, can Logan Gilbert secure the win?
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
It's a big day in the Emerald City, and the buzz isn't just about the series finale against the Angels. The Seattle Mariners officially welcomed first baseman Josh Naylor to the club, activating the power-hitting lefty with immediate plans to slot him into the cleanup spot. As Logan Gilbert takes the mound to secure a series win, the message from the front office is crystal clear: the push for October is on, and reinforcements have arrived.
Cal Raleigh has been a one-man wrecking crew, entering Sunday's game with a career-best 40 home runs and 85 RBI on the season.
The Josh Naylor era has officially begun. Acquired from the Arizona Diamondbacks for prospects Brandyn Garcia and Ashton Izzi, Naylor brings a potent bat to the heart of the Seattle lineup. Sporting a .292 average with 11 homers and 59 RBI through 93 games this year, he provides a much-needed boost of professional hitting and power. The plan is for Naylor to take over as the everyday first baseman, a move that solidifies the infield and lengthens the batting order considerably. To make room on the active roster, the versatile but light-hitting Miles Mastrobuoni (.252 AVG, .620 OPS) was optioned to Triple-A Tacoma.
While Naylor's debut is the headline, there's a critical game to be played. The Mariners, holding a 56-49 record, entered Sunday with a 2-1 series lead over the visiting Angels. Logan Gilbert gets the ball for Seattle, looking to build on his solid 3.07 ERA and secure a vital series victory. He faces veteran Kyle Hendricks for Los Angeles. With J.P. Crawford (.367 OBP) setting the table and Cal Raleigh (40 HR) providing the thunder, adding Naylor to the mix makes this Mariners lineup a formidable challenge as they look to keep the pressure on the division-leading Astros.
The acquisition of Naylor was a significant move, but don't expect the front office to rest on its laurels. With the trade deadline just days away, reports indicate the Mariners are still actively exploring the market, with a primary focus on bolstering the bullpen. This aggressive approach signals a clear commitment to winning now and making a deep playoff run. The move for Naylor wasn't just about adding one player; it was a statement of intent to build a roster capable of competing with the best in the American League.
With a new bat in the lineup and the front office clearly still on the hunt for more talent, the next few days will be pivotal for the Mariners' 2025 season. A series win against the Angels would provide the perfect momentum as the trade deadline frenzy reaches its peak. All eyes are on the field today and on the front office for what comes next. The stretch run is here, and the M's are making their move.
