Mariners first baseman Josh Naylor isn’t with the team in Detroit as Seattle gets ready to face the Tigers for Game 3 on Tuesday.
Naylor and his wife have been anticipating the birth of their first child. The original due date was Saturday, the same day as Game 1 of the American League Division Series, according to the Seattle Times.
When asked about Naylor’s absence, manager Dan Wilson told reporters that the slugger is away ” due to personal reasons.” It’s unclear if he’ll be available for Game 3 and Wednesday’s Game 4 at Comerica Park.
Third baseman Eugenio Suarez took ground balls at first Friday, the day before Game 1, in anticipation of Naylor’s absence, according to the Seattle Times. He’s only played three career games at first base, all coming this season. Rookie Ben Williamson also participated in fielding drills at third base, where he showcased strong defense across 85 appearances.
However, Naylor appeared in Games 1 and 2 at T-Mobile Park, going 0-for-8 with a walk across both contests. He batted No. 4 on Saturday and No. 6 on Sunday.
Although Naylor has struggled so far against the Tigers, he’s been a very effective player this season. The Canadian batted .295 with 20 homers and 92 RBIs in 2025, including nine dingers and 33 RBIs since coming over to Seattle from the Arizona Diamondbacks in a July trade.
The series between the Mariners and the Tigers is currently tied 1-1. Game 3 starts Tuesday at 4:08 p.m. ET.
