Josh Naylor’s Wife: Mariners Star Misses ALDS Trip Ahead of Baby’s Birth

Seattle Mariners first baseman Josh Naylor did not travel with the team to Detroit for the next leg of the American League Division Series (ALDS) as his wife is expecting their first child. The 28-year-old slugger’s status for Games 3 and 4 remains unclear while he stays in Arizona to be with his family.

Mariners manager Dan Wilson confirmed on Monday that Naylor was given a personal day and the team will know more about his availability ahead of Game 3 at Comerica Park. MLB’s paternity leave rules allow players to step away for up to three days during the postseason, and teams can temporarily replace them on the active playoff roster if needed.

Mariners Prepare for Possible Roster Change

If Naylor is officially placed on the paternity list, Seattle could activate a replacement from its traveling taxi squad. The team has brought extra players to Detroit in case of such a move but had not made a roster decision as of Monday evening.

Naylor has been a major contributor since joining the Mariners at the July 24 trade deadline from the Arizona Diamondbacks. Over 54 regular-season games with Seattle, he hit .299 with nine home runs, 10 doubles, and 33 RBIs. However, he has yet to record a hit in the ALDS, going 0-for-8 with one walk across the first two games.

Detroit is expected to start right-hander Jack Flaherty in Game 3. Without Naylor, Seattle could turn to Luke Raley at first base. Raley performed better against right-handed pitching this season, posting a .695 OPS over 183 plate appearances against righties. Another option would be shifting Eugenio Suárez from third to first base, a move the Mariners have prepared for in practice. If that happens, rookie Ben Williamson could fill in at third.

What Naylor’s Absence Means for Seattle

Naylor’s power and presence have helped the Mariners stay competitive down the stretch, and his absence would force key lineup adjustments in a pivotal playoff series. Losing one of their best left-handed bats could reduce Seattle’s offensive depth against Detroit’s pitching staff.

Still, the organization has contingency plans and believes it can stay competitive if Naylor remains away for family reasons. His return would be a welcome boost for a club aiming to advance deeper into the postseason, but the focus now is on him supporting his wife during this milestone moment.

Seattle fans will watch closely for updates on Naylor’s status as Game 3 approaches, hoping he can rejoin the team after welcoming his first child.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Why is Josh Naylor missing the Mariners’ ALDS trip?

He is in Arizona with his wife, who is expecting their first child.

Q2: How long can Josh Naylor be on paternity leave?

MLB’s policy allows up to three days of leave during both the regular season and postseason.

Q3: Who will play first base if Josh Naylor remains out?

Luke Raley is expected to start against right-handed pitching. Eugenio Suárez could shift to first if needed.

Q4: How has Josh Naylor performed for the Mariners?

He hit .299 with nine home runs and 33 RBIs in 54 regular-season games after joining Seattle midseason.

Q5: When will the Mariners decide on Naylor’s roster status?

The team expects to make a decision before Game 3 against the Detroit Tigers.