The 2025 Tip O’Neill Award, given annually by the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame to the best Canadian player in Major League Baseball, has been claimed by Josh Naylor, the first baseman for the Seattle Mariners from Mississauga, Ontario. Naylor topped all Canadian players in batting average (.295), RBIs (92), and stolen bases (30) during the season, playing for both Arizona and Seattle. Additionally, he ranked second among Canadian MLB athletes in hits (160), runs (81), home runs (20), doubles (29), and walks (48).
Expressing his gratitude in a press release, Naylor stated, “It’s truly humbling to receive this award. I am grateful and honored. I will continue to strive and perform well to set a positive example for the younger generation.” The 28-year-old was selected for the award over 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, praised Naylor’s exceptional performance in the 2025 regular and post-seasons, noting his potent combination of power and base-stealing skills that made him a significant offensive threat in the league. Naylor emerged as a pivotal player for the Mariners towards the end of the season, achieving a .364 batting average and a .982 OPS in September as Seattle vied for the American League West title.
In a noteworthy achievement, Naylor became only the fourth first baseman in MLB history and the second Canadian after Larry Walker to achieve 20 home runs and 30 stolen bases in a single season. His momentum extended into the playoffs, where he batted .340 with a .966 OPS in 12 games, leading the Mariners with 16 hits and setting multiple Canadian post-season records, including being the first Canadian to secure four three-hit games in a single post-season.
Following the season, Naylor signed a lucrative five-year contract extension with the Mariners worth $92.5 million US. Drafted 12th overall by the Miami Marlins in the 2015 MLB draft, Naylor is now entering his eighth season in the major leagues.