Josh Naylor Away from Mariners as Wife Nears Birth

The Seattle Mariners face a pivotal moment in their American League Division Series (ALDS) matchup against the Detroit Tigers. They might have to do it without one of their biggest bats.

First baseman Josh Naylor missed Monday’s workout at Comerica Park due to personal reasons—he’s awaiting the birth of his first child. While this is a huge moment for him, it could leave the Mariners scrambling a bit as they head into Game 3.

Josh Naylor’s Absence and Family Matters

Manager Dan Wilson said Naylor’s absence was expected. Naylor’s wife, Chantel Collado, is due to give birth in Arizona, and he plans to fly out as soon as she goes into labor.

MLB rules let the team put him on the paternity list, which gives him up to three days off. That would open a spot for Seattle to call up a replacement from the taxi squad.

Potential Roster Replacements

Winning in October takes everyone. The Mariners have several infielders who could step in at first base if Naylor can’t play.

• Miles Mastrobuoni – Took grounders at first during Monday’s workout and has plenty of defensive flexibility.
• Cole Young – A promising young guy with good contact skills and a steady glove.
• Ben Williamson – Another infielder who could fill in if things get tight.

Luke Raley and veteran slugger Eugenio Suárez also got some reps at first base to keep options open. The Mariners will make a final roster call by Tuesday morning, just before Game 3.

Mariners’ Pitching Plans in the ALDS

The pitching situation for Seattle is just as interesting with the series tied at 1-1. Logan Gilbert will start Game 3 against a Tigers lineup that doesn’t go away easily.

There’s still some mystery about Game 4. Wilson hasn’t made anything official yet.

Bryce Miller Likely for Game 4

Most folks expect Bryce Miller to get the Game 4 nod. He’s been a steady arm all year and might need to step up if Naylor’s bat is missing.

Miller mixes velocity and movement well, which should help against Detroit’s hitters in what could be a turning point game.

Injury Update: Bryan Woo

Pitching coach Pete Woodworth shared some good news about Bryan Woo. Woo’s recovering from a mild pectoral strain and seems to be on the mend.

If Seattle advances to the American League Championship Series (ALCS), Woo could be back. That would give the rotation a boost and offer Wilson more choices for matchups.

Looking Ahead

As the Mariners get ready for Game 3, they’re juggling emotions and strategy. Naylor’s family milestone is a reminder that life doesn’t pause for baseball, even in October.

Seattle’s focus stays on the basics—solid defense, smart decisions, and leaning on a strong rotation to set the pace. There’s a lot on the line, and honestly, it’s hard to predict how it’ll all shake out.

Key Takeaways for Mariners Fans

• Naylor may miss up to three games if placed on the paternity list.
• The Mariners have multiple roster options to cover first base in his absence.
• Bryce Miller is the expected starter for Game 4, though not officially announced.
• Positive injury update on Bryan Woo offers hope for a deeper postseason run.

Whether Naylor’s out there or at home celebrating fatherhood, the Mariners need every player to step up. The series is tied, and the Tigers are a tougher opponent than some folks expected.

Seattle’s depth and grit might end up making all the difference.

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