The Mariners are playing with fire, and I'm here for it. J.P. Crawford, a 31-year-old shortstop, is getting some work at third base, and it's a move that could pay off big time. Crawford, who's in the final season of a $51MM contract, has been slowed by injuries and a slump at the plate. His .210 batting average and 16.5% walk rate are a far cry from his career-best numbers. But, what if he's not meant to be a shortstop anymore? What if he's a better fit at third base, a position he hasn't played much of in his career? That's the question the Mariners are asking, and I think it's a brilliant one.
Crawford's defensive grades have declined in recent years, and with top prospect Colt Emerson reaching the majors, the Mariners have a chance to experiment. Emerson, a 20-year-old with a record-setting $95MM contract, has played both third base and shortstop in his first three big league games. The Mariners envision him as their shortstop of the future, but what if Crawford can be that third baseman? It's a team-first approach that could benefit both players.
Crawford's openness to sliding off shortstop is a smart move. It expands his defensive versatility and makes him more appealing as a free agent. If he can grade out more effectively at third base, it'll only make him more valuable. And, let's not forget the current opportunity to test things out. With Brendan Donovan on the 10-day IL and Cole Young not exactly seizing the position at second base, the Mariners have a chance to see what Crawford can do.
But, is it a permanent move? That's the question. Crawford has 174 innings at third base in his career, but Donovan is expected back soon. And, let's not forget the quality season-long numbers of Dominic Canzone and Luke Raley in the outfield. The Mariners have options, but Crawford's versatility and potential at third base are too good to ignore.
In my opinion, the Mariners are playing a smart game here. Crawford's slump at the plate and declining defensive grades make him a risk worth taking. If he can find his form at third base, it'll be a win-win for both players. And, if not, well, at least they tried something different. It's a move that could pay off big time, and I'm here for it.
