Mariners' Josh Naylor Befriends Team Dog Tucker

The first baseman has quickly become close with the Mariners' clubhouse canine.

Published on Feb. 28, 2026

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After joining the Seattle Mariners last season and signing a new five-year contract, first baseman Josh Naylor has quickly become best friends with the team's clubhouse dog, Tucker. Naylor was surprised to learn the Mariners had a team dog when he first arrived, but has since embraced the canine companion, often seen feeding and interacting with Tucker during Spring Training.

Why it matters

The heartwarming relationship between Naylor and Tucker highlights the fun, lighthearted side of baseball and the role pets can play in bringing joy to players and fans alike. As the Mariners look to build on their success, Naylor's bond with the team dog could help foster a positive team culture.

The details

Tucker, who was recently promoted to the title of "Manager of Clubhouse Pawsitivity", has been with the Mariners for five seasons. Before hitting the field for practice, Naylor can be seen stretching next to Tucker, feeding the dog bites from his plate. Naylor has expressed his love for dogs, saying "I personally don't think, as humans, we deserve dogs. They're just incredible."

  • Naylor joined the Mariners before the July 2025 trade deadline.
  • The 2026 MLB Spring Training is currently underway.

The players

Josh Naylor

A first baseman for the Seattle Mariners who signed a new five-year contract with the team in the offseason.

Tucker

The Mariners' clubhouse dog who was recently promoted to the title of "Manager of Clubhouse Pawsitivity".

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What they’re 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?”

— Josh Naylor (MLB.com)

“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. 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.'”

— Josh Naylor (MLB.com)

What’s next

As Spring Training continues, fans will be eager to see more of the budding friendship between Josh Naylor and the Mariners' team dog, Tucker.

The takeaway

The heartwarming relationship between Mariners first baseman Josh Naylor and the team's clubhouse dog, Tucker, is a reminder of the joy and fun that pets can bring to professional sports. Naylor's embrace of Tucker highlights the importance of fostering a positive team culture, which could pay dividends as the Mariners look to build on their recent success.