Josh Naylor took the phrase “using your head” to a new level on Monday night.
The Mariners first baseman attempted to break up an inning-ending double play in the opening frame of ALCS Game 7, using his body to get in the way of Ernie Clement’s throw to first base at Rogers Centre.
Naylor jumped into the path of the throw, resulting in the ball hitting him up high and launching into the air, allowing Jorge Polanco to reach first.
Mariners first baseman Josh Naylor (12) interferes with a throw to first, resulting in a double play in the first inning against the Toronto Blue Jays during game seven of the ALCS round for the 2025 MLB playoffs at Rogers Centre. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect
However, the umpires gathered to discuss the call and it was ruled that it would be a double play due to Naylor intentionally interfering with Clement’s throw.
While the decision to use himself as a human shield was a notable one by Naylor, the reaction of Blue Jays starter Shane Bieber equally caught the attention of baseball fans as well.
IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters ConnectDuring a replay, Bieber, previously a teammate of Naylor’s in Cleveland, was shouting as he watched the play.
“What the f–k are you doing,” Bieber screamed.
The inning did end as a result of the double play and the game went into the bottom of the first with the Mariners up by one off the single Naylor hit to get on base.
Daulton Varsho drove in the tying run for the Blue Jays, scoring George Springer in the bottom of the first inning.
Shane Bieber was not happy with Josh Naylor’s actions. Fox
Umpires discuss after possible interference by Seattle Mariners first baseman Josh Naylor (12) on a double play Toronto Blue Jays third baseman Ernie Clement (22) in the first inning during Game 7 of the ALCS. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters ConnectThe Blue Jays and Mariners are tied 3-3 in the best-of-seven American League Championship Series.
The winner will advance to the World Series to face the Dodgers.
