PHOENIX – The Diamondbacks moved on from a slugger who could have been a bigger piece of the puzzle. When Josh Naylor opted to return to Seattle on a five-year, $92.5 million contract, the move was more than a reunion for the Mariners after a playoff run. It was a reminder of how sharply a franchise’s identity can pivot when a fire sale intersects with a player entering his prime.
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Jun 23, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks first base Josh Naylor (22) hits a two run double during the first inning against the Chicago White Sox at Rate Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-Imagn Images
Arizona traded him during a season defined by short-term damage control, but the long-term cost is only now becoming clear. Power-first corner infielders with improving plate discipline rarely hit the open market, and when they do, teams with clear playoff aspirations will quickly move upon it.
Oct 20, 2025; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Seattle Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh (29) celebrates with first baseman Josh Naylor (12) after hitting a home run in the fifth inning against the Toronto Blue Jays during game seven of the ALCS round for the 2025 MLB playoffs at Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: Nick Turchiaro-Imagn Images
What is the future for Arizona without Josh Naylor:
Arizona now shifts to what it has done in the recent past, which is going with short-term contracts with veteran deals. For the Diamondbacks and their fans, the emotional weight is real. The frustration isn’t only about losing talent, it’s about wondering whether the front office has a clear timeline for returning to meaningful October baseball. D-backs GM Mike Hazen definitely has options to keep their ship sailing.
Jul 22, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks first baseman Josh Naylor against the Houston Astros at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
If Arizona is going to build sustainably, it can’t merely react to roster changeups, they must anticipate it and adapt. The Diamondbacks have been able to do that in the past, and are doing their best to replicate it.
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Reporter Benjamin Bliklen covers the Arizona Diamondbacks, Arizona Cardinals, and Phoenix Suns for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @BenBliklen
