The Seattle Mariners just got a jolt of adrenaline when they needed it most. Sources close to the team confirm that shortstop J.P. Crawford took a massive step toward returning to the lineup Thursday, and insiders say the development has the entire clubhouse buzzing.
According to reports from Camden Yards, Crawford grabbed a glove and scooped up ground balls for the first time since a terrifying hit-by-pitch sent him to the injured list with a right hand contusion. But here’s what nobody saw coming: he was taking those reps at third base, not his usual shortstop position. One team insider told us that the switch is reportedly a calculated move to test his hand’s durability without the explosive lateral movements required at short.
The real eyebrow-raiser came when Crawford was spotted gripping a bat—something he allegedly couldn’t do just two days ago. “That’s a massive leap,” one league source said. “The fact he can hold a bat and take grounders this quickly suggests the swelling is way down and the grip strength is back.”
The timing couldn’t be more dramatic. The Mariners currently sit at 36-33, clinging to a two-game lead over the Texas Rangers in the AL West. With a brutal June schedule ahead, every game feels like a must-win. Insiders say Crawford’s return would be a stabilizing force for a lineup that has been inconsistent.
MLB insider Daniel Kramer was first to break the news on social media, posting video of Crawford fielding grounders and noting the bat-grip milestone. Since the Mariners backdated Crawford’s IL stint, he is reportedly eligible to be activated as soon as Tuesday—and sources claim the team is preparing for exactly that.
Crawford was having a career year before the injury, with 10 home runs in 55 games. One Mariners staffer told us that losing him even for a few extra games could have derailed their momentum. “He’s the heart of the infield and a big part of the offense. Getting him back this fast would be huge.”
While the team hasn’t officially confirmed a return date, the buzz around the clubhouse is undeniable. Could this be the spark that propels Seattle deeper into first place? One source close to Crawford simply said: “Don’t bet against him.”
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