Seattle Mariners One Win Away from Historic ALCS Appearance in 2025

One win away: Seattle Mariners close in on first ALCS appearance in a generation

The Seattle Mariners are just one victory from advancing to the American League Championship Series (ALCS) for the first time in decades. After a commanding 8-4 win over the Detroit Tigers in Game 3 of the AL Division Series, the Mariners have positioned themselves to break through postseason barriers that held them back for nearly two decades. Central to this transformation is the steady leadership and performance of veteran shortstop J.P. Crawford, a key figure in the franchise’s rebuilding strategy since 2018.

• Seattle Mariners are one win away from reaching their first AL Championship Series since 2001.
• The 2025 Mariners team, with a 90-win regular season, marks a significant improvement over the 2018 team.
• GM Justin Hollander highlights the importance of roster identity and realistic self-assessment in the team's turnaround.
• Shortstop J.P. Crawford, a central figure since 2018, has been pivotal both on the field and in the clubhouse.
• Beyond baseball, Crawford is recognized for his philanthropic efforts and community involvement, earning consecutive MLB Roberto Clemente Award nominations.

Mariners’ journey from post-season frustration to new era dominance

The margin for the Mariners’ postseason exclusion in the past two years was heartbreakingly narrow—just one game. Echoing this razor-thin margin, the current Mariners of 2025, who posted a 90-win regular season record, are exactly one win ahead of the 2018 squad in total victories, signaling an emergent paradigm shift in the franchise’s fortunes. General Manager Justin Hollander emphasized the critical mindset adjustment that fueled this success: “One of the most important things we talk about all the time is knowing who you are,” a principle that shaped roster choices and development.

Following the 2018 season, despite recording the best tally in 15 years, the Mariners acknowledged the limitations of their aging roster, which was the oldest in the American League. Recognizing the dominance of rivals like the Houston Astros in the division, the Mariners’ leadership aimed to recalibrate their building strategy. Hollander and Jerry Dipoto, Mariners’ President of Baseball Operations, committed to assembling a youthful, dynamic core with players mostly aged between 24 and 32 years, fostering both competitiveness and longevity.

J.P. Crawford: The cornerstone of Seattle’s rebuild

A critical cornerstone of this rebuild has been J.P. Crawford, acquired in December 2018 in a multi-player trade that sent out Jean Segura—a proven bat and fan favorite at the time—to Philadelphia. At acquisition, Crawford was a promising but unproven talent, hitting .214 in 72 major league games and originally a former first-round draft pick. Seattle’s front office saw a player who controlled the strike zone, excelled defensively, and embodied the work ethic that fit their long-term vision.

Crawford’s impact was immediate and growing. In Game 3 against Detroit, he ignited key offensive moments: a third-inning single that led to a run scored on an error, a fourth-inning walk setting up another run, a sixth-inning home run, and an eighth-inning sacrifice fly. His consistency and leadership have earned praise from teammates like third baseman Eugenio Suárez and starter Logan Gilbert, highlighting how Crawford’s presence elevates the entire team.

After three strong seasons and earning a Gold Glove in 2020, Crawford signed a lucrative five-year, $51 million contract, pledging his commitment to Seattle through 2026. His attachment to the city goes beyond baseball—he and his family have made Seattle their home, expressing deep affection for the community and the city’s culture.

Balanced lineup and strategic acquisitions fuel Mariners’ success

While the Mariners’ offense initially appeared thin during the regular season, a series of savvy mid-season trades—bringing in Eugenio Suárez and first baseman Josh Naylor—and the return of outfielder Victor Robles from injury, greatly deepened their lineup. Remarkably, the team’s depth runs so deep that a seasoned hitter like Crawford bats ninth, illustrating the strength throughout their batting order.

Their balanced roster, strengthened by the solid defense of Crawford, catcher Cal Raleigh (a Platinum Glove recipient), and center fielder Julio Rodríguez, complements a strong and aggressive pitching staff. Game 3’s victory was sparked by the bottom of the order reaching base repeatedly, setting a tone that the Mariners intend to carry forward if they secure the upcoming win.

J.P. Crawford’s commitment extends off the field

Beyond his athletic contributions, J.P. Crawford exemplifies character and community spirit, reflected in his back-to-back nominations for the MLB Roberto Clemente Award. This prestigious honor recognizes players who demonstrate extraordinary character, philanthropy, and positive impact on and off the field.

Crawford’s philanthropic efforts include working with youth baseball and softball programs, participating in Mariners-related charities, and supporting a broad range of community initiatives in Seattle. Alongside his wife Kathy, he has championed programs such as the Rizzs Toys For Kids Foundation and the Seattle Angels program, which aids foster care girls annually. Their contributions also extend to organizations combatting domestic violence and supporting animal rescue.

Moreover, Crawford remains connected to his Southern California roots through the Baseball Generations Foundation (BBG), where he serves as a prominent board member. The BBG focuses on increasing baseball accessibility to youth from all economic backgrounds, having assisted over 650 players in recent years. The annual BBG All-Star event is a key fixture, producing numerous MLB draftees and NCAA scholarship recipients.

Looking ahead: A bright future for Seattle baseball

The Mariners stand on the cusp of breaking a generational barrier in their postseason journey. With a balanced roster, strong leadership, and an engaged community presence led by players like J.P. Crawford, the team embodies a new era of baseball in Seattle. One more win will catapult the Mariners into the AL Championship Series, extending their historic quest and captivating a passionate fan base eager for sustained success.

Crawford’s story—from a calculated 2018 acquisition to team leader and community role model—encapsulates the Mariners’ journey. It illustrates how careful talent evaluation, player development, and committed leadership can transform a franchise, on and off the field. As the Mariners push forward, their blend of youth, experience, and dedication offers a promising blueprint for future achievements and community impact.

Questions and answers

Q: Seattle Mariners ALCS appearance

A: The Seattle Mariners have made a notable appearance in the American League Championship Series (ALCS) once in their history, in 1995. During that postseason run, the Mariners defeated the Cleveland Indians in the ALCS to advance to the World Series for the first time. Since then, the team has been striving to reach the ALCS again, marking it as a significant milestone in the franchise's playoff history.

Q: J.P. Crawford postseason performance

A: J.P. Crawford, the shortstop for the Seattle Mariners, has had moments of strong postseason performance, showcasing solid defense and timely hitting. Although the Mariners have had limited recent playoff appearances, Crawford's contributions have been noted for helping the team in clutch situations. His work ethic and leadership on the field make him a valuable asset during high-pressure postseason games.

Q: Seattle Mariners 2025 season success

A: The Seattle Mariners 2025 season is anticipated to build on the momentum from previous years as the team aims for postseason contention. With a mix of experienced players and emerging young talent, the Mariners are projected to be competitive in the American League. Success in 2025 will likely depend on consistent pitching, offensive production, and maintaining a healthy roster throughout the season.

Q: Mariners rebuilding strategy 2018 to 2025

A: Between 2018 and 2025, the Seattle Mariners have focused on a rebuilding strategy centered around developing young talent through their farm system and making strategic acquisitions. The team emphasized drafting promising prospects, improving player development, and strengthening their pitching staff. This approach aims to create a sustainable winning core to compete long-term in the American League West and return to postseason prominence.

Q: MLB Roberto Clemente Award nominees

A: The MLB Roberto Clemente Award honors players who demonstrate outstanding sportsmanship and community involvement both on and off the field. Each year, teams nominate one player who embodies these qualities, recognizing their positive impact beyond baseball. The award highlights players committed to charitable work, leadership, and overall contributions to their communities.

Key Entities

Seattle Mariners: The Seattle Mariners are a Major League Baseball team based in Seattle, Washington, competing in the American League West division. They are known for developing talented players and have a passionate fan base in the Pacific Northwest.

J.P. Crawford: J.P. Crawford is a professional baseball shortstop who plays for the Seattle Mariners. He is recognized for his strong defensive skills and has become a key contributor to the Mariners' infield.

Justin Hollander: Justin Hollander is an executive in Major League Baseball known for his role in baseball operations. He has been involved in strategic decisions and player acquisitions within MLB organizations.

Eugenio Suárez: Eugenio Suárez is a Venezuelan professional baseball third baseman who has played for the Seattle Mariners. He is noted for his power hitting and has contributed significantly to the Mariners' offensive lineup.

Jerry Dipoto: Jerry Dipoto is the general manager of the Seattle Mariners, overseeing player transactions and team building strategies. He has a reputation for aggressive trades and for shaping the Mariners' roster.

External articles

• Mariners lose ALCS Game 7 2025, fall short of World Series
• This Little-Known Blue Jays Player Just Sparked an ALCS ...
• 48 years, zero pennants: Mariners one win away from ...

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YouTube Video

Title: J. P. Crawford jumped over him 😳 #MLB #Mariners #ALCS
URL: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/2YSAeYRKLjc