The Seattle Mariners have encountered difficulties at the beginning of their 2026 spring training as they look to improve on their recent ALCS run. Bryce Miller, the young pitcher, had raised hopes after reporting full health following an elbow injury that affected his 2025 campaign.
Miller had opted to avoid surgery for bone spurs after consulting with specialists, choosing instead to pursue rehabilitation aimed at restoring the strong performance he displayed in 2024. This recovery was critical for the Mariners’ rotation, which aims to contend with the Toronto Blue Jays this season.
JP Crawford’s Ongoing Rehabilitation Progress
Meanwhile, the Mariners have taken a cautious stance with shortstop JP Crawford, who began camp dealing with shoulder soreness. Manager Dan Wilson expressed optimism that Crawford, a veteran and team leader, would be available to lead the lineup when the regular season starts on March 26.
Encouragingly, General Manager Justin Hollander has revealed that Crawford is scheduled to take live batting practice and is expected to make his Cactus League debut as a designated hitter shortly. If his recovery continues on track, the team anticipates having their Gold Glove shortstop back in the field during the week of March 8.
Bryce Miller’s New Injury Raises Concerns
Despite earlier positive news, Miller recently experienced soreness in his left side and oblique following a pitching session, according to Mariners beat reporter Daniel Kramer. Subsequent imaging confirmed inflammation, leading the right-handed pitcher to pause his activities for several days.
General Manager Justin Hollander reported that while Miller will soon begin light catching, no specific timetable has been set for his return to the mound. This setback is frustrating for Miller, who was determined to show his resilience after a difficult 2025 season that saw his ERA rise to 5.68.
Impact on Team Depth and Season Prospects
The health challenges facing Miller and Crawford provide opportunities for promising players like Colt Emerson to gain valuable experience during spring training. Nevertheless, the Mariners’ primary focus remains on ensuring key veterans recover fully in time for their Opening Day matchup against Cleveland.
Injury update: Bryce Miller experienced some soreness in his left side/oblique after his outing on Thursday, which led to imaging that revealed inflammation, Justin Hollander just said.
He'll be down a few days then begin light catch after. No timeline beyond that.
— Daniel Kramer (@DKramer_) February 28, 2026
Injury update: J.P. Crawford (right shoulder soreness) will take live at-bats on the back fields today and is targeted to make his Cactus League debut at DH on Tuesday.
If all goes well, he'll be back at shortstop the week of March 8, Justin Hollander just said.
— Daniel Kramer (@DKramer_) February 28, 2026
