How it unfolded
As the Seattle Mariners gear up for the 2026 MLB season, they are facing significant challenges with injuries to key players just before Opening Day. The team has been relatively fortunate with their health through Spring Training, but the unexpected injuries to starting shortstop J.P. Crawford and starting right-handed pitcher Bryce Miller have raised concerns.
On March 30, 2026, it was announced that J.P. Crawford would be placed on the 10-day injured list due to right shoulder inflammation. This marks a notable moment as Crawford has been the Mariners’ starting shortstop for Opening Day each of the last seven seasons. His absence will be felt, particularly given his contributions last season, where he recorded four home runs and 58 RBIs.
In Crawford’s absence, Leo Rivas is expected to step in as the starting shortstop. Rivas had a solid performance last season, hitting two home runs, and the team is hopeful he can fill the gap left by Crawford. Meanwhile, Crawford is expected to be eligible for activation on April 1, but he will need to get some at-bats in Arizona before rejoining the team.
Adding to the Mariners’ woes, Bryce Miller has also been placed on the 15-day injured list due to a left oblique strain. Miller, who had a salary of $800,000 last season, is not expected to return until around the first of May. His absence will require the Mariners to adjust their starting rotation, with Emerson Hancock taking his place.
Logan Gilbert is set to start for the Mariners on Opening Day against the Cleveland Guardians, which is a crucial game for the team as they look to establish momentum early in the season. The projected Opening Day lineup includes notable players such as Brendan Donovan, Cal Raleigh, Julio Rodríguez, Josh Naylor, Randy Arozarena, Luke Raley, Dominic Canzone, Leo Rivas, and Cole Young.
In addition to Crawford and Miller, Miles Mastrobuoni is also on the 10-day injured list due to a right calf strain he sustained while playing for Italy in the World Baseball Classic. Mastrobuoni had a part-time role last season, hitting .250 with one home run and 12 RBIs across 152 at-bats. His injury further complicates the Mariners’ depth as they head into the season.
The current state of the Mariners is one of cautious optimism. While the injuries to Crawford and Miller are significant, the team has depth and talent that can help them navigate the early part of the season. The Mariners will need to rely on their bench and younger players to step up in the absence of their starters.
This sequence of events matters greatly for the Mariners as they aim to compete in a tough division. The health of their key players will be crucial as they seek to improve on last season’s performance and make a push for the playoffs. The team and its fans will be watching closely as the season unfolds, hoping for quick recoveries and strong performances from the replacements.
