J.P. Crawford Bio
John Paul Crawford is an American professional baseball shortstop for the Seattle Mariners of Major League Baseball (MLB). Born on January 11, 1995, in Long Beach, California, he showed remarkable potential as a young athlete at Lakewood High School. Drafted as a first-round pick by the Philadelphia Phillies in 2013, Crawford quickly ascended the minors due to his talent and was known for his defense. After a trade to the Mariners in 2018, he earned a Gold Glove Award in 2020 and continues to play a vital role for Seattle.
Early Life and Background
Crawford was born on January 11, 1995, in Long Beach, California, to Beth and Larry Crawford. His father was a former professional football defensive back and a four-time All-Star in the Canadian Football League (CFL), while his mother received a scholarship offer to play college volleyball. He has two sisters, one of whom played softball for the Cal State Fullerton Titans, and she encouraged him by taking him to batting practices. Growing up, Crawford participated in youth baseball programs in nearby Compton, including the Urban Youth Academy and Reviving Baseball in Inner Cities.
In 2009, Crawford began attending Lakewood High School, where he quickly gained recognition for his athletic performance. His baseball coach, Spud O’Neil, noted Crawford’s defensive skills and positioned him as the shortstop during his freshman year. By the end of his senior year, he had set several team records, leading in career hits, runs scored, stolen bases, and walks. During his senior season, Crawford faced personal challenges as his mother was diagnosed with throat cancer, which led him to drive her to chemotherapy treatments regularly. He initially accepted a scholarship to play college baseball with the University of Southern California Trojans but ultimately chose to pursue a professional career instead.
Path to Baseball
Crawford was evaluated by Marti Wolever, the assistant general manager of the Philadelphia Phillies, during his junior year of high school. Wolever discovered Crawford while scouting another player and quickly recognized his talent. The Phillies selected him in the first round, 16th overall, of the 2013 MLB draft, and he signed on June 18, receiving a $2.3 million signing bonus. The organization had high expectations for Crawford, envisioning him as a long-term replacement for former MVP shortstop Jimmy Rollins.
He made his professional debut with the Gulf Coast Phillies in the Gulf Coast League shortly after signing, where he excelled at the plate, leading the league in batting average and on-base percentage. Over the next few years, he became the Phillies’ top prospect, showcasing his skills in various minor league teams. Despite facing injuries, including a torn ligament in his left thumb in 2015, Crawford continued to develop and improve his game. By 2017, he was promoted to the major leagues, making his debut on September 5.
J.P. Crawford Career
Early Career (2017-2018)
Crawford made his MLB debut with the Philadelphia Phillies in 2017, playing at third base. He had a modest start, batting .214 with six RBIs in 23 games. In 2018, he became the Phillies’ Opening Day shortstop but struggled with both offense and defense, leading to a stint on the disabled list. He finished his rookie season with a .214 batting average, three home runs, and 12 RBIs.
Breakthrough (2019-Present)
In December 2018, Crawford was traded to the Seattle Mariners, a move he later described as a turning point in his career. He began the 2019 season with the Triple-A Tacoma Rainiers but was called up to the Mariners after an impressive performance. He made his Mariners debut on May 10, 2019, and quickly established himself as the starting shortstop.
In 2020, Crawford had a breakout season, batting .255 and winning the Gold Glove Award for his defensive prowess. He continued to improve his offensive game, achieving a career-high in home runs and RBIs in subsequent seasons. In 2022, he signed a five-year, $51 million contract extension with the Mariners, solidifying his place in the team’s future.
Notable Works and Milestones
John Paul Crawford’s signature work includes his Gold Glove Award win in 2020, highlighting his exceptional defensive skills. He has also made significant contributions to the Mariners’ postseason efforts, including key performances in the 2022 and 2023 playoffs.
J.P. Crawford Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Crawford has received recognition for his outstanding performance on the field, including his nomination for the Gold Glove Award in 2020.
J.P. Crawford Awards Won
John Paul Crawford won the Gold Glove Award in 2020, acknowledging him as the best defensive shortstop in the American League.
J.P. Crawford Family
John Paul Crawford is married, and he and his wife welcomed their daughter in December 2024. They reside in Woodinville, Washington, and have pet huskies.
Personal Life
Crawford married his wife on December 11, 2021. He is known for his philanthropic efforts, including founding Baseball Generations, an organization promoting baseball in underserved communities. He was nominated for the Roberto Clemente Award in 2024 and 2025 for his contributions to the community.
