Mariners update on suspensions from Los Angeles brawl

The Seattle Mariners discovered J.P. Crawford’s fate on Thursday, after appealing the suspension given to the shortstop for his part in the brawl with the Los Angeles Angels.

Thursday night’s 8-6 win over the Oakland Athletics was notable for the absence of one key individual from the Mariners lineup. More specifically, J.P. Crawford.

The reason for this, was because Crawford officially began his suspension, which came as a result of his part in last Sunday’s brawl with the Los Angeles Angels. Initially suspended for five games, the one positive was that this was reduced to four as a result of his appeal.

There was an inkling the 2020 Gold Glove Award winner’s suspension was set to begin on Thursday, when the Mariners’ lineup was released earlier in the day. It seemed pretty evident his absence wasn’t injury related, given that he was seen taking batting practice.

As per Daniel Kramer of mlb.com, Crawford is still allowed to use the Mariners’ facilities at T-Mobile Park during his suspension, and will do throughout the weekend. However, he said his plan was to return home each night to watch the series versus the Athletics.

Manger Scott Servais is understandably disappointed to be without Crawford for four games. Speaking to the media on Thursday, he said:

“It’s certainly unfortunate for us. Everybody knows what he does leading off and playing shortstop, but we will abide by the rules and the rulings that are out there.”

With Crawford’s situation resolved, the Mariners and their fans will now await the outcome of the appeals made on behalf of Jesse Winker and Julio Rodriguez. The duo were suspended for seven and two games respectively.

With the Mariners allowed to stagger the suspensions, the rationale is that Winker will probably start his suspension as soon as Crawford returns on Monday. The question is if and how much his suspension will be reduced?

In respect of Rodriguez, the situation is less clear. Whereas Major League Baseball clarified Crawford and Winker were disciplined for fighting, all they said for Rodriguez was that he was suspended for his actions.

The rookie sensation said to the media he did not throw any punches and was just trying to separate players and calm down the situation. At this time, he is sorting out the appeal process with his agents at Wasserman and the MLB Players Association.

Regardless of the outcome of the remaining appeals, the timing is tough for the Mariners as they fight to get back to .500. With the likes of key contributors Ty France and Mitch Haniger also missing — through injury — the next few weeks will be crucial for this ball club.

With the Mariners winning eight of their last 10 games following Thursday night, are you confident in their ability to actually become a genuine playoff contender this season? Or do you believe their poor earlier form has left them with too much ground to make up? Let us know in the comments section below.