Canadian first baseman Josh Naylor agrees to 5-year contract with Mariners

Canadian first baseman Josh Naylor and the Seattle Mariners agreed to a five-year contract on Monday.

Naylor, 28, of Burlington, Ont., became a free agent after a season in which the Mariners lost to the Toronto Blue Jays in Game 7 of the American League Championship Series.

Shortly after Seattle's season ended, President of Baseball Operations Jerry Dipoto stressed the importance of re-signing Naylor after acquiring him from the Arizona Diamondbacks and called the return of the first baseman a priority.

“Ensuring that Josh remains a Sailor long-term has been a priority for us,” Dipoto said in a statement. “Josh's intelligence, drive, toughness and competitiveness are on display every day. He's just a winner.”

Manager Dan Wilson also praised the impact Naylor has had on the Mariners both on and off the field during his three months with the team.

“You need that intensity. You need that drive,” Wilson said. “I think his desire to win is incredible as well. And that’s what you need from all your guys and that’s a big part of what he brought to this club.”

In 54 games with the Mariners, Naylor hit .299 with nine home runs, 33 RBIs and 19 stolen bases. In 12 postseason games, Naylor batted .340 with three home runs, five RBIs and two stolen bases.

WATCH | Naylor made Canadian baseball history with HR in Toronto:

For the season, Naylor hit .295 with 20 home runs, 92 RBIs and a career-high 30 stolen bases.

“I'm going to be a sailor again and I couldn't be more excited,” Naylor said in a statement. “From the moment I arrived, everyone in the organization welcomed me and helped me. The players immediately accepted me and loved my game, and the fans were incredible.”

“Seattle has the best fan base in baseball. They are very enthusiastic and support us until the end and I am very grateful for that. I can’t wait to continue playing with these guys and bring a championship to the city.”