The Seattle Mariners received welcome news about a key middle infielder Saturday.
J.P. Crawford joined the team at T-Mobile Park and participated in early batting practice, per Adam Jude of The Seattle Times. The Mariners planned for the 31-year-old to go through a full infield workout and remain with the American League West club throughout the weekend, per Daniel Kramer of MLB.com. Crawford will then begin a minor league assignment next week, likely at Triple-A Tacoma, per Kramer.
Crawford began the season on the 10-day injured list with right shoulder inflammation. The veteran infielder was not expected to have a lengthy absence.
His short return to the club was a good sign for Seattle. He’s been a reliable bat in the Mariners’ lineup with a 113 wRC+ last season, and he’s been a consistent player with a 2.8 fWAR last season.
Crawford’s defensive ability has declined since winning the Gold Glove in 2020, but his plus-9 in defensive runs saved in 2024 served as a positive sign that his skills haven’t completely fallen off.
The 2013 first-round pick entered this season on the final year of a five-year, $51 million deal that netted him $10.2 million a year.
Leo Rivas will continue to serve as the starting shortstop for Seattle while Crawford works his way back from injury.
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