Just because the Seattle Mariners avoided major damage to JP Crawford's hand/wrist doesn't mean Crawford will return from injured reserve anytime soon.
The M's shortstop is rehabbing an oblique injury suffered Wednesday against Triple-A Tacoma and was likely to return before Friday's game, but the team is currently uncertain when he will return.
According to Ryan Dibbish of the Seattle Times, Crawford didn't even travel to Baltimore with the team.
JP Crawford did not fly to Baltimore today. His hand, which was hit by a pitch, is still sore and slightly swollen.The Mariners have not decided when he will join the team.
JP Crawford did not fly to Baltimore today. His hand, which was hit by a pitch, is still sore and slightly swollen.The Mariners have not decided when he will join the team.
— Ryan Divish (@RyanDivish) May 16, 2024
This is a disappointing development for M's. They will be looking to give their all for this grueling 10-day road trip against the Baltimore Orioles, New York Yankees and Washington Nationals. In addition to Crawford not being ready, the team is also dealing with injury issues to Jorge Polanco (hamstring) and Mitch Garber (back spasms).
Additionally, Crawford's absence means Dylan Moore will have to continue playing shortstop, where he would be best suited to play in a utility role.
Crawford has gotten off to a slow start this season, hitting .198 with two home runs in his first 86 at-bats, but he is the catalyst for the Ems' lineup and a defensive leader the team definitely needs back.
Crawford, in his eighth year in the major leagues, is a career .250 hitter and had a really good year in 2023. He batted .266, hit a career-high 19 home runs, and led the American League with 94 walks. he was acquired. Prior to the 2019 season, he signed with the Philadelphia Phillies from Seattle.
The Mariners will play the Orioles on Friday at 7:05 p.m. ET.
