Mariners Have No Intention of Bringing Back J.P. Crawford

Seattle Mariners infielder J.P. Crawford learned from the club that it has no intention of bringing him back for the 2027 season, MLB reported on Tuesday, confirming an initial report by The Seattle Times.

The 31-year-old became a free agent last week after completing a five-year, $51 million contract he signed on Opening Day in 2022. Crawford expressed a desire to return in a different role if necessary, stating in May that he wanted to remain with the franchise long-term. Yet, as the 2026 season concluded, the team made clear its preference to head in a different direction.

During the final game of the regular season, Crawford left the field to a standing ovation at T-Mobile Park, replaced by a defensive substitute as he wept.

“I feel like the season was a disappointment,” Crawford said that weekend after Seattle missed the postseason. “Obviously, we didn’t reach our goal.”

Earlier last year, the club honored him by selecting him among the top 50 players in franchise history during the 50 Seasons celebration.

The decision to part ways stems from defensive regression at shortstop alongside roster construction priorities.

Emerson signed a $95 million contract extension in the spring but missed several games due to a wrist injury and subsequent surgery in August. President of baseball operations Jerry Dipoto indicated the club might pursue an infielder before sorting out defensive alignments between Donovan and Emerson for the upcoming season.