The Seattle Mariners will open the season without their cornerstone shortstop after placing J.P. Crawford on the 10-day injured list. The 31-year-old Crawford, who has started Opening Day at shortstop each of the last seven seasons, dealt with a right shoulder issue throughout spring training. He managed just seven exhibition games, batting .143 with no extra-base hits. Leo Rivas, who hit .244 in 90 at-bats last season, takes over as the everyday shortstop.

Right-hander Bryce Miller begins the season on the 15-day IL with a left oblique injury that plagued him throughout spring training. Miller ended a bullpen session early two weeks ago and has only thrown warmup pitches without full effort since March 11. The 27-year-old will continue building arm strength in Arizona. Emerson Hancock, who started 16 games last season, replaces Miller in the rotation after Miller signed a one-year deal with a 2027 option in January.

Utility infielder Miles Mastrobuoni also begins the season on the 10-day IL with a calf injury suffered while playing for Italy in the World Baseball Classic. The Mariners' Opening Day roster now features significant holes up the middle, with both the shortstop and starting rotation spots needing immediate production. Crawford's absence particularly impacts the team's leadership, as he's the franchise's longest-tenured player.