Lineup: J.P. playing as Mariners take different approach vs LHP

Not only is J.P. Crawford back in the Seattle Mariners lineup a day after exiting with a triceps contusion, but he’s even leading off against a left-handed starting pitcher.

That’s a change, as the Mariners have typically put Rob Refsynder in the top spot when facing southpaws.

Mariners make five roster moves ahead of series opener

Instead, the scuffling Refsnyder will hit fifth as the designated hitter in Monday’s series opener with the Chicago White Sox at T-Mobile Park. Refsnyder, who is known for his ability to hit lefty pitching, is hitting just .123 (7 for 57) this season, including just .111 (5 for 45) against left-handers.

With Crawford set to be at shortstop, top Mariners prospect Colt Emerson is in at third base again as he hunts for his first MLB hit after making his big league debut Sunday.

Here’s the full Mariners lineup Monday against Chicago starter Noah Schultz (4.91 ERA):

Woo Day. #TridentsUp pic.twitter.com/WLKikn31rN

— Seattle Mariners (@Mariners) May 18, 2026

The Mariners will have Bryan Woo (3.91 ERA) on the mound as they look to avenge a series loss in Chicago earlier this month. Woo is coming off back-to-back quality starts of six innings pitched with nine strikeouts in each.

The White Sox lineup includes American League home run leader Munetaka Murakami (17 homers) and former Mariners outfielder Jarred Kelenic.

Here’s what Chicago will look like Monday against the M’s:

Matchup with the Mariners pic.twitter.com/7gCAaECOpw

— Chicago White Sox (@whitesox) May 18, 2026

First pitch of the series opener is set for 6:40 p.m., with Mariners Radio Network coverage on Seattle Sports beginning at 5:30 with the pregame show.

More on the Seattle Mariners

• What Mariners GM said about calling Colt Emerson up
• Another M’s pitching prospect having stellar start to first pro season
• How M’s will split catching duties while Cal Raleigh is out

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