Mariners’ lineup vs Guardians has interesting wrinkle at SS

With opening day approaching, shortstop has become a question mark for the Seattle Mariners as J.P. Crawford has dealt with a shoulder injury throughout spring training.

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There was an interesting wrinkle to the team’s lineup on Friday against the Guardians that may be a preview of what the plan will be if Crawford needs to start the season on the injured list.

For the first time in Cactus League play this spring, Cole Young is getting the start at shortstop for the M’s. Leo Rivas is slated to play second base with Young sliding over from his normal position.

Kicking off the weekend against the Guardians. #TridentsUp pic.twitter.com/E4u76Z29KD

— Seattle Mariners (@Mariners) March 20, 2026

The 22-year-old Young entered camp as the favorite to be Seattle’s opening day second baseman. He logged 621 of his 623 innings in the majors at second base last season, compared to just two at shortstop. But the 2022 first-round pick was originally a shortstop when the Mariners drafted him.

Young played shortstop for the majority of his four seasons in the minor leagues, making 238 starts of his 320 minor league starts at the position. Mariners insider Shannon Drayer recently reported Young had been taking reps at shortstop during morning infield drills at camp.

The shoulder injury Crawford is dealing with has limited to him to just seven games and 16 at-bats this spring. The veteran shortstop recently made a trip to Texas to see Dr. Keith Meister about the lingering issue and received a cortisone shot.

Manager Dan Wilson on Wednesday said it’s “too early to tell” if Crawford will be ready to play by opening day or will need to start the season on the IL.

Crawford hasn’t played in a Cactus League game since March 11.

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