Mariners Prepare for Key Returners as Injuries Begin to Clear

The Seattle Mariners are set to welcome Cal Raleigh and J.P. Crawford back from the injured list as they open a six-game homestand on Tuesday. Manager Dan Wilson indicated that both players are expected to rejoin the active roster following successful rehab assignments. With the Mariners currently atop the AL West at 37-36, the return of two key sluggers could provide a significant boost to an already surging team.

Cal Raleigh, who was placed on the IL on May 14 with an oblique strain, is working through his fifth rehab game and is expected to return to the lineup soon. After a down start to the 2026 season, with a .161/.243/.317 slash line and just seven home runs through 181 plate appearances, the 2025 AL MVP runner-up appears to be in need of a fresh start. His return could reignite the middle of the Mariners’ lineup and bolster their offense.

J.P. Crawford is also expected to be activated after a 10-day IL stint following a hand injury sustained on June 5. Crawford, who was hit by a pitch from Framber Valdez, has been rehabbing at third base in preparation for a potential move to accommodate Colt Emerson at shortstop. He has worked exclusively at third in recent pregame drills and could make his first MLB appearance at the position since 2018.

Randy Arozarena is also expected to return after missing time with a left hamstring issue. The outfielder exited a game on Friday but is not expected to miss Tuesday’s contest. His return adds depth to the Mariners’ outfield and could provide a spark offensively.

Meanwhile, the Mariners faced a couple of injury scares during their 10-1 loss to the Nationals on Sunday. First baseman Josh Naylor exited after fouling a ball off his right shin, and reliever Andres Munoz left due to back tightness. X-rays on Naylor’s shin were negative, and he reported feeling “doing all right.” Munoz described his back issue as “nothing to worry about” and is being labeled day-to-day.

Munoz’s struggles this season have been notable. In 24 1/3 innings, he has a 5.92 ERA, which is well above his usual elite level. Despite a high strikeout rate and career-low walk rate since 2022, increased hard contact and a surge in home runs have hurt his numbers.

The Mariners will look to continue their momentum with a full-rotation return of key players. The team faces the Cleveland Guardians next, with Tuesday’s opener marking a pivotal moment for their push in the AL West.