Mariners ink J.P. Crawford to five-year, $51 million extension

The Seattle Mariners have locked up an emerging infielder to a long-term deal.

The team announced that they have signed starting shortstop J.P. Crawford to a five-year, $51 million contract extension that takes into effect after the 2022 campaign and runs through the 2026 season.

“J.P. brings excellent defense at a critical position, in addition to solid on-base skills and a penchant for delivering in the big moment,” said Mariners president of baseball operations Jerry Dipoto.

“He’s an incredibly competitive player who has become an integral part of our team, both on the field and in the clubhouse.”

Crawford will make $10 million per season with a $1 million signing bonus for the first three years, and then get a mini raise at $11 million for the final year of the contract before entering unrestricted free agency as a 31-year old in the fall of 2026.

The 27-year old, who has steadily improved each year to become an everyday MLB infielder, is coming off the best season of his career in 2021.

During that span, he posted a .273 batting average, nine homers, 54 RBI and an above average 103 wRC+ and a 3.1 fWAR in 160 games.