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The Seattle Mariners have made it clear that they want to bring back first baseman Josh Naylor in 2026. But what if they aren't able to make that happen? If Naylor walks in free agency, here are the next five best options at first base for Seattle.
5 alternative options for first base if the Mariners can't keep Josh Naylor
1. Cody Bellinger
This would be the big swing. The former MVP and All-Star would be expensive, but he'd add a lot of talent to the Mariners lineup while providing exactly the type of versatility Jerry Dipoto loves so much. Bellinger has been worth 12 bWAR over the past three seasons, and will be 30 next year. He is in his prime, and playing like it.
2. Carlos Santana
Santana had a rough season and is 39 years old, but he was a Gold Glover and an effective hitter as recently as last year. He had success in Seattle, and reportedly helped mentor Julio Rodríguez during the 2022 season. Could he have a similar affect on other young players in a return to Seattle?
3. Yandy Díaz
This is one of those trades that has been rumored for literally years. It's probably because Dipoto has such a strong history of trading with the Rays. If the Rays do want to move Díaz, the Mariners would be a good fit, with Díaz actually filling a very similar role in the lineup to Naylor.
4. Luis Arraez
It sounds like Arraez will not re-sign with San Diego, and while he is probably never going to be the player he was in 2023, he is still a good hitter capable of making contact more often than any other player in the league. The Mariners could actually benefit with more contact in their lineup that struggles with strikeouts, making Arraez a god fit for the bottom of the lineup in Seattle.
5. Luke Raley
It certainly would not be the popular choice, but the team does still have Luke Raley on the roster. Raley was getting serious time at first base in 2024, and likely would have again in 2025 if not for his injuries corresponding with wacky hot streaks from Rowdy Tellez and Donovan Solano. Raley could be the cheap option at first base if the Mariners decide to spend their money on other positions, which is certainly possible.