If the Seattle Mariners envision a deep MLB playoff run, then they might need a new first baseman. What names on the MLB trade market could end up with Seattle?
First basemen have gained more prominence in recent seasons. Teams still see it as a place for a power hitter to occupy. Small ball, which entails MLB teams aiming for either bunts or singles, has been prominent a lot.
Yet Seattle could use a power hitter at first base. Now the question becomes:Â Can the Mariners find that in the next five weeks before the trade deadline?
Seattle Mariners’ Path to MLB Playoffs Starts with New First Baseman, Insider Says
With 4 1/2 5 games separating the Mariners in the American League West Division race from the first-place Houston Astros, Seattle could be looking for an addition.
Seattle, which features MVP candidate Cal Raleigh, shortstop J.P. Crawford (who gets on base 40.1% of the time), and center fielder Julio Rodriguez, could use some more offense. The Mariners aren’t lacking in the power department thanks to Raleigh, nicknamed the “Big Dumper.” But Seattle is having trouble making contact at the plate.
The team has 681 total strikeouts this season, ranking them 10th in MLB in that category. Raleigh needs help driving in runners, too. The Mariners boast a bevy of free swingers but needs more out of the first-base position.
Last week, the team designated veteran first baseman Rowdy Tellez for assignment. The veteran slashed .208/.249/.434/.773 with 11 home runs and 27 RBIS. On “Foul Territory,” host Trevor May interviewed MLB Insider Ken Rosenthal to see what the Mariners could do to remedy their issue.
Josh Naylor? Ryan O’Hearn? 🤔@Ken_Rosenthal explores external first base options for the Mariners with the trade deadline a little over a month out. pic.twitter.com/B2nlIXFqjy
— Foul Territory (@FoulTerritoryTV) June 24, 2025
“Trevor, in my opinion, they need to go get a first baseman, and there are a couple of guys out there,” Rosenthal said on Tuesday, June 24. “Josh Naylor, if the (Arizona) Diamondbacks are willing to move him, which they are not just yet. And if he’s healthy, because he left last night’s game with a shoulder issue. That’s one name.
“(Baltimore Orioles first baseman) Ryan O’Hearn is an even better name,” Rosenthal said. “This guy is having a breakout year at an advanced age. He’s going to be an All-Star.”
Naylor, a free agent at the end of this season, could find his way to Seattle for mid-level prospects. Naylor has a slash line of .303/.358/.467/.824 with nine home runs and 51 RBIs. He can provide teams with a solid left-handed bat.
O’Hearn, 31, has a slash line of .304/.385/.489/.874 with 11 home runs and 30 RBIs. Naylor and O’Hearn have excellent plate discipline. Naylor possesses more innings at the position (3,313 to 2,519 for O’Hearn) and age can play a factor. Naylor is 28 years old.
The Mariners sit within striking distance of the AL West division lead. By acquiring a solid first baseman, Seattle can close the gap and potentially overtake the Astros. The Mariners’ front office will need to trade away some prospects in order to get a first baseman for their stretch run.