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Mariners’ JP Crawford takes major step toward injury return
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The Seattle Mariners received an encouraging injury update Thursday as J.P. Crawford moved closer to a possible return.
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The shortstop resumed baseball activity at Camden Yards, giving the club a meaningful sign during an important road series.
Crawford took groundballs for the first time since a hit-by-pitch caused a right hand contusion and sent him to the injured list. The step is relevant for the Mariners, who sit in first at 36-33 and hold a two-game lead over the Texas Rangers in the American League West.
MLB.com's Daniel Kramer posted on X, formerly Twitter, sharing video of Crawford taking groundballs at third base while also noting an encouraging development with the bat.
"J.P. Crawford (right hand contusion) takes groundballs for the first time since the HBP six days ago that landed him on the IL. And at third base.
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He was also seen holding a bat earlier, which he was unable to do just two days ago.
He's eligible to be activated Tuesday."
Kramer's update gave Seattle significant reason to be optimistic. Crawford could not hold a bat Tuesday, so Thursday's progress represented a significant jump in grip strength, comfort, and overall readiness.
The third base reps also stood out. Crawford usually anchors shortstop, but taking grounders there can test his hand-in-glove impact without forcing every movement required at his normal position.
The Mariners placed the 31-year-old veteran on the injured list after Framber Valdez hit him with a pitch. Initial X-rays showed no fracture, but swelling and pain forced the club to manage the injury carefully.
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Now, his glove work and ability to hold a bat suggest a minimum absence remains possible. Because the Mariners backdated Crawford's IL stint, he can return Tuesday.
For the Mariners, the timing would be valuable. Crawford has 10 home runs through 55 games this season, and his return would provide Seattle another stabilizing piece at the plate during a demanding June stretch.
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