Game 4 of the ALDS between the Seattle Mariners and Detroit Tigers was filled with chaos. Even though the Tigers won this game, the main talking point was Josh Naylor. But not for the right reasons. At the Bottom of the 5th inning, he almost bodied Kerry Carpenter, but that is not what most people were worried about. It was something that happened in the previous inning.

Every team in MLB right now is sign-stealing, and until MLB makes a rule about this, it might go on. But this is a gray area, and many don’t appreciate it when the opponent does this. This time, it has angered fans and even former player and broadcaster, Adam Wainwright. While on live, Wainwright said, “It is blatant… I have never seen it so blatant in my whole life… I don’t know, I don’t like it.”

In Game 4 of the ALDS, Josh Naylor made his presence felt on second base with bold signaling.

Every fan could see him lift and wave his arms, seemingly revealing Tyler Holton’s upcoming pitches. While entirely legal, the gestures appeared to influence Mitch Garver, who went 0-2 before ultimately walking. That subtle advantage helped set up Dominic Canzone’s single, bringing Naylor home and giving Seattle an early lead.

The tension grew when Naylor clashed with Kerry Carpenter on the basepath in the fifth inning, drawing audible frustration from the crowd.

Despite the collision, Naylor maintained control and recorded the out, blending aggression with heads-up play. Fans seemed torn, both impressed by his skill and irked by the physicality of the moment. His unassisted double play earlier in the game further emphasized his impact, quietly keeping Detroit’s rally in check.

Even with the Mariners ultimately losing 9-3, Naylor delivered one of his strongest postseason performances this year.

He doubled, singled, scored twice, and made defensive plays that showcased his awareness and composure. His presence adds depth to Seattle’s lineup alongside Cal Raleigh and Eugenio Suarez.

Now, looking ahead to Game 5 in Seattle, Naylor’s energy and savvy could prove crucial, potentially shifting momentum in high-pressure moments.

If Josh Naylor keeps reading pitchers like open books, Game 5 could get chaotic fast. Even Adam Wainwright might need binoculars to catch every wild gesture Naylor sends across the second. Seattle fans can only hope their first baseman’s theatrics turn into a series-changing advantage.

In case the Mariners don’t go all the way, they already have a replacement in place

If the Seattle Mariners fall short of a World Series this year, don’t panic—management wasn’t exactly twiddling its thumbs. Behind the scenes, they’ve quietly lined up a few lifeboats for the inevitable free-agent shuffle.

Josh Naylor might be the talk of the offseason, but Seattle’s thinking ahead, making sure that losing him, or a couple of other key pieces, won’t leave the roster looking like a half-baked DIY project.

Josh Naylor, Eugenio Suárez, and Jorge Polanco are all free agents, creating uncertainty for key infield positions. Mariners hope to re-sign Naylor, but retaining Suárez and Polanco appears unlikely, forcing strategic offseason planning.

A proposed solution involves acquiring Tampa Bay’s All-Star Yandy Díaz, a versatile infielder and proven hitter. Díaz’s .290 average and consistent 20–25 home run seasons make him a reliable offensive addition. His ability to play first base, third base, or DH offers flexibility, easing fans’ fears about potential departures.

In baseball, as in life, having backup plans beats watching your carefully built team implode.