Seattle Mariners’ Josh Naylor, hailing from Mississauga, Ont., clinched the 2025 Tip O’Neill Award, an annual accolade bestowed by the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame upon the finest Canadian player in Major League Baseball. Naylor topped all Canadian players in batting average (.295), RBIs (92), and stolen bases (30) during his time with Arizona and Seattle. Additionally, he secured the second spot among Canadian MLB athletes in hits (160), runs (81), homers (20), doubles (29), and walks (48).
Expressing his gratitude in a press release, Naylor remarked, “It’s truly humbling to receive this award. I am thankful and honored. My commitment is to continue working hard and playing to inspire younger generations.” The 28-year-old triumphed over fellow contenders Nick Pivetta of the Boston Red Sox, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. of the Toronto Blue Jays, and Cade Smith of the Cleveland Guardians.
Scott Crawford, the Hall’s director of operations, commended Naylor, stating, “Josh Naylor displayed exceptional performance in the 2025 regular and post-season. His blend of power and base-stealing prowess established him as a major offensive force, and his enthusiasm and love for baseball are truly infectious.”
Naylor emerged as a key player for the Mariners in the latter part of the season, boasting a .364 average and .982 OPS in September as Seattle pushed towards claiming the American League West title. Notably, he became only the fourth first baseman in MLB history and the second Canadian, following Larry Walker, to achieve 20 home runs and 30 stolen bases in a single season.
Maintaining his momentum in the postseason, Naylor hit .340 with a .966 OPS across 12 games, leading the Mariners with 16 hits. Setting multiple Canadian postseason records, he notably became the first Canadian to log four three-hit games in a single postseason. Post-season success led to Naylor securing a new five-year, $92.5 million US contract with Seattle.
Originally drafted 12th overall by the Miami Marlins in the 2015 MLB draft, Naylor is now entering his eighth season in the majors, showcasing his talent and dedication to the sport.