Josh Naylor Misses Mariners Tour to Detroit

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Josh Naylor Misses Mariners Tour to Detroit

Mariners First Baseman Josh Naylor Stays Home as Family Awaits New Arrival

In a pivotal moment for the Seattle Mariners, first baseman Josh Naylor did not accompany the team to Detroit for Game 3 of the American League Division Series (ALDS) on Tuesday. This decision comes as Naylor and his wife anticipate the birth of their first child, which was due this past Saturday, as reported by The Seattle Times.

Uncertainty Surrounds Naylor’s Participation in ALDS

Manager Dan Wilson addressed reporters on Monday, confirming Naylor’s absence due to a “personal matter.” The specifics surrounding his availability for Game 3 on Tuesday or Game 4 on Wednesday remain unclear. Wilson expressed optimism about Naylor’s return, stating, “It’s kind of a personal day for him, so he’ll be back, and we’re looking forward to it.”

Mariners Adjust Roster Amidst Naylor’s Absence

With Naylor likely to go on paternity leave during the ALDS, the Mariners have made strategic adjustments to their roster. Rookie third baseman Ben Williamson has been included in the 26-man roster for the series. Additionally, usual third baseman Eugenio Suárez has been practicing at first base—an unusual position for him, having played there only a few times throughout his career.

Performance and Future Outlook for Josh Naylor

Since joining the Mariners from the Arizona Diamondbacks before the July trade deadline, Naylor has made a significant impact, boasting a .299 batting average along with nine home runs and 19 stolen bases in just 54 regular-season games. Despite his efforts, Naylor has faced challenges in the postseason, recording no hits in his first eight at-bats, alongside a walk in the opening games of the ALDS.

As Naylor is set to become a free agent at the conclusion of this season, the Mariners have expressed interest in re-signing him for the upcoming year, highlighting his importance to the team.

Looking Ahead: ALDS Series Status

The Mariners recently evened the series against the Detroit Tigers, winning 3-2 on Sunday night. The ALDS is a best-of-five series, meaning that if the teams split the upcoming games in Detroit, the showdown will return to Seattle’s T-Mobile Park for a decisive Game 5. Game 3 is scheduled for a 1:08 p.m. first pitch on Tuesday, with radio coverage on Seattle Sports starting at 11 a.m. for an extended pregame show.