Josh Naylor has quickly become a fan favorite with the Seattle Mariners, and it's not just the fans who adore him. After an electrifying finish to the 2025 MLB season and securing a new five-year deal, Naylor is winning hearts as Spring Training kicks off.
One of his biggest admirers? Tucker, the Mariners' team dog, who was recently promoted to Manager of Clubhouse Pawsitivity. Tucker, in his fifth season with the team, is already known as Naylor's best friend according to his team bio.
Before hitting the field for infield drills and batting practice, Naylor can often be found stretching on the turf next to the weight room. Right by his side is Tucker, eagerly munching on treats from Naylor’s hand. This routine has become so regular that Tucker knows exactly where to be and when.
Naylor shared his affection for dogs, saying, “I love dogs. I personally don't think, as humans, we deserve dogs.
They're just incredible. They're always happy and loving and can't wait to see you.
Their whole lives are a part of our lives, you know? So if you think about it that way, like, why not spoil them every day you can?”
Naylor joined the Mariners just before the July trade deadline and was surprised to find a dog with the team. “The first day I was at home, I'm like, 'Oh, someone just brought their dog in today.
That's cool.’ Because you don't really hear about that,” Naylor said.
“And then he was there and the next thing, it’s like, 'What is going on right now?' And I'm like, 'OK, this guy's here to stay.
Let's embrace him.'”
With Spring Training in full swing, it seems like baseball - and Tucker’s companionship - is a nonstop treat for Naylor and the Mariners.