Josh Naylor’s Top 5 Trade Fits for 2025: Perfect MLB Landing Spots
SportsGrid Contributor Just Baseball
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Houston Astros: A Power Bat to Anchor First Base
The Houston Astros are in desperate need of an upgrade at first base. Following the decline of Yuli Gurriel and a disappointing season from Jose Abreu, Houston struggled to find consistency, finishing with the third-lowest combined fWAR at the position in MLB. Josh Naylor offers a significant upgrade with his offensive capabilities and youthful energy.
While Houston’s weak farm system might complicate trade negotiations, the Astros’ willingness to spend big could facilitate a deal. Adding Naylor would immediately stabilize a lineup that is built to contend and provide a left-handed power bat to complement their potent offense.
Seattle Mariners: Rebuilding Corner Power
Thanks to Just Baseball for the stats, analysis and insights for this slideshow article.
The Seattle Mariners have a glaring need for offensive production at first base after losing Ty France and Justin Turner to free agency. While Luke Raley is a viable option, his versatility in the outfield suggests the Mariners may seek a dedicated first baseman with more offensive upside.
Josh Naylor could be the perfect fit, offering consistency and power at a key position. The Mariners, who are looking to solidify their roster to compete in the AL West, would gain a reliable bat to drive in runs and anchor the heart of their order.
Cincinnati Reds: Filling a Glaring Hole at First Base
The Cincinnati Reds suffered the worst production from first base in MLB last season, finishing dead last in both wRC+ (70) and fWAR (-1.8). Injuries and inconsistency plagued the position, with multiple players failing to provide reliable contributions.
Josh Naylor would bring much-needed stability and offensive firepower to a team brimming with young talent. His presence at first base could help the Reds take the next step toward playoff contention and provide leadership for their promising core.
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New York Mets: Replacing Pete Alonso’s Production
The New York Mets face uncertainty at first base following Pete Alonso’s departure to free agency. While Mark Vientos could fill in at the position, his primary role has been at third base, leaving first base up in the air.
With significant financial commitments already made to Juan Soto, the Mets might hesitate to shell out the hefty sum required to bring Alonso back. Josh Naylor offers a cost-effective solution, providing the Mets with a productive bat to help maintain their offensive edge in a competitive NL East.
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New York Yankees: A Crucial Upgrade at First Base
The New York Yankees endured one of their weakest seasons offensively at first base in 2024, finishing second-worst in MLB in wRC+ at the position. With players like Anthony Rizzo and DJ LeMahieu unable to deliver, a trade for Josh Naylor could inject much-needed consistency into their lineup.
If the Yankees miss out on signing top free agent Christian Walker, Naylor would be a logical and affordable alternative. Even if they secure Walker, adding Naylor as additional firepower might be an attractive option for a team eager to make up for another playoff disappointment.
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Houston Astros: A Power Bat to Anchor First Base
The Houston Astros are in desperate need of an upgrade at first base. Following the decline of Yuli Gurriel and a disappointing season from Jose Abreu, Houston struggled to find consistency, finishing with the third-lowest combined fWAR at the position in MLB. Josh Naylor offers a significant upgrade with his offensive capabilities and youthful energy.
While Houston’s weak farm system might complicate trade negotiations, the Astros’ willingness to spend big could facilitate a deal. Adding Naylor would immediately stabilize a lineup that is built to contend and provide a left-handed power bat to complement their potent offense.
Seattle Mariners: Rebuilding Corner Power
Thanks to Just Baseball for the stats, analysis and insights for this slideshow article.
The Seattle Mariners have a glaring need for offensive production at first base after losing Ty France and Justin Turner to free agency. While Luke Raley is a viable option, his versatility in the outfield suggests the Mariners may seek a dedicated first baseman with more offensive upside.
Josh Naylor could be the perfect fit, offering consistency and power at a key position. The Mariners, who are looking to solidify their roster to compete in the AL West, would gain a reliable bat to drive in runs and anchor the heart of their order.
