The Seattle Mariners have not made the playoffs since 2022. In an American League West Division that has been run by the Houston Astros for several years, the Mariners have had trouble emerging as true contenders. Despite consistent solid pitching, offensive inconsistency has kept Seattle from taking the next step.
This year, they are off to a hot start and if they want to finally break through and reclaim a postseason spot, they will need more consistent production from their hitters to complement their dominant pitching staff.
JP Crawford Hitting 58 Points Higher In 2025
One player who has already answered the call is MLBbro J.P. Crawford. The veteran shortstop has delivered in terms of increasing his offensive production early in the season. After batting only .202 last season, Crawford had two hits in a 4-3 Mariners win over the Boston red Sox on Thursday, lifting his average to .260. It’s a massive leap and considering the crucial role he plays at the bottom of the lineup and his defensive reliability; it’s a significant step in the right direction. He’s also sporting a career-high OBP of .400.
JP Crawford Keeps The Mood Mellow In Seattle With Reggae Music and His Cool Cali Demeanor
Crawford, now in his ninth MLB season, is not known for his power—he’s only reached double-digit home runs once when he hit 19 bro bombs in 2023—but if he can maintain a solid offensive presence from the lower third of the batting order, he can help balance the Mariners’ lineup and provide some much-needed protection for the top. In fact, Crawford recently showed a flash of power, hitting his first home run of the season on Wednesday—a three-run bomb that proved to be integral in Seattle’s road victory over the Boston Red Sox.
Interestingly, Crawford has been a much more dangerous hitter on the road than at home so far this season. Entering Thursday’s contest, the MLBbro was batting .343 away from Seattle. That kind of production shows he’s locked in mentally, even in hostile environments—an encouraging sign for a veteran looking to lead by example.
J.P. Crawford On A Hot Streak
His hot streak extends beyond just one game, too. Over his last 10 games, Crawford has batted over .350 and driven in 10 runs. That kind of offensive surge, combined with his usual Gold Glove-caliber defense at shortstop, is exactly what Seattle needs from him. He’s steady and respected presence. The Mariners rely on him heavily to set the tone.
With young stars like Julio Rodriguez and Ben Williams still working to reach their full potential, the team needs Crawford to not only be consistent but to elevate his game when it matters most. His leadership, both in the clubhouse and on the field, could be the X-factor for a Mariners squad that’s been on the brink for years. If Crawford keeps trending upward, he just might help lead Seattle back to October baseball.
