Mariners Receive J.P. Crawford News After 8 Missed Games
After enduring a frustrating start to the 2026 MLB season, the Seattle Mariners have righted the ship and now sit above .500 with a 37-35 record. Entering Sunday's series finale against the Washington Nationals, the Mariners hold a one-game lead over the Athletics for first place in the American League West.
The Mariners had spent much of the early part of the season below .500, up until an eight-game winning streak in late May showed fans flashes of the team that was one game away from the World Series just a season ago. Several players have contributed to the Mariners' recent success, but veteran infielder J.P. Crawford has missed the last eight games with a right hand contusion.
Crawford was hit by a pitch against the Houston Astros on June 5, and he now appears to be close to returning to the lineup.
On Sunday, Daniel Kramer of MLB.com shared that Crawford expects to be activated from the injured list on Tuesday, when he first becomes eligible to return. The veteran infielder also acknowledged that he remains uncertain about Seattle's plans for him defensively moving forward.
"J.P. Crawford (right hand contusion) says he expects to be activated from the IL on Tuesday, when he's first eligible. As for third base, he wasn't sure what the Mariners' plan is yet. But he's taken grounders almost exclusively there on this road trip, including right now," Kramer shared on X.
J.P. Crawford (right hand contusion) says he expects to be activated from the IL on Tuesday, when he's first eligible.
— Daniel Kramer (@DKramer_) June 14, 2026
As for third base, he wasn't sure what the Mariners' plan is yet. But he's taken grounders almost exclusively there on this road trip, including right now.
Crawford's comments regarding the defensive plan could suggest the Mariners are looking for ways to keep Crawford and top prospect Colt Emerson in the lineup simultaneously.
Although the 31-year-old has endured an up-and-down season offensively, he has still found ways to contribute. In 55 games this season, Crawford is slashing .228/.356/.409 with 10 home runs.
If Crawford is indeed activated on Tuesday as expected, whether he returns at shortstop or transitions into a new role at third base, he would provide the Mariners with another experienced presence as they attempt to maintain their lead in the American League West.
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This story was originally published June 14, 2026 at 1:54 PM.