J.P. Crawford's Shoulder Could Be a Real Problem for the Mariners This Season
Here's what you don't want to hear in late March: your shortstop is heading to Texas to see a doctor about his shoulder. That's exactly where we are with J.P. Crawford and the Seattle Mariners right now, and it's got to be on everyone's mind as we count down to Opening Day. A lingering shoulder issue for one of your key position players is never ideal timing.
What We Know About Crawford's Situation
Crawford is scheduled to visit a doctor in Texas to address the shoulder concern that's been hanging over him. The Mariners are being cautious, which makes sense, but the fact that this is still an issue heading into the season is worth paying attention to. You need your shortstop healthy and ready to go, not dealing with pain that could affect his swing or his defensive range.
The Roster Question Mark
The Mariners are facing some serious roster decisions before Opening Day, and Crawford's status is right there at the center of it all. With Cal Raleigh behind the plate and Julio Rodriguez patrolling center field, the team has some solid pieces in place. But if Crawford can't get right, it changes everything about how the front office approaches the next few weeks. The timing couldn't be worse as spring training ramps up and the regular season is right around the corner.
What Comes Next
We should get clarity once Crawford meets with the specialist in Texas. The Mariners need to know what they're dealing with here. Is this something that'll sideline him for a stretch, or can he push through it? GM Jerry Dipoto has got some decisions to make, and those choices depend a lot on what the doctors say about that shoulder. Keep your eyes on this one, because it could shape the Mariners' entire 2026 season.
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This article was created with AI assistance and reviewed by Seattle On Tap editorial staff. Always verify information with official team sources.