Could J.P. Crawford Be a Fit for the Twins' 2027 Infield?

[Cody Christie]

The Minnesota Twins have several young infielders who could play important roles in 2027, but that does not mean the team should ignore opportunities to add an experienced major leaguer. With questions surrounding Royce Lewis and uncertainty about how the infield will look beyond next season, Minnesota could benefit from adding a player capable of handling multiple positions.

That is where free agent J.P. Crawford enters the conversation. The longtime Seattle Mariners shortstop is coming off a disappointing season, but he still offers major league experience, on-base ability and some versatility. The Athletic's Jim Bowden identified the Twins as a potential landing spot for Crawford and projected a two-year, $20 million contract.

There are reasons to question whether Crawford belongs in Minnesota, especially given the organization's existing infield options. However, the right combination of roster flexibility and affordability could make this an intriguing opportunity for the Twins.

Crawford Brings Experience and a Familiar Skill Set

Crawford entered professional baseball as a first-round pick of the Philadelphia Phillies in 2013. He made his big league debut in 2017 before joining Seattle in a trade following the 2018 season. Beginning in 2019, he became the Mariners' primary shortstop and eventually established himself as the franchise's all-time leader in games played at the position.

At his best, Crawford combined reliable defense with an ability to reach base. He won a Gold Glove Award in 2020 and demonstrated throughout his career that he could work counts rather than simply swing for power. Since reaching the majors, he has produced a .245/.340/.367 batting line, an 18.8% strikeout rate and an 11.5% walk rate. His career 106 wRC+ indicates that he has been a slightly above-average offensive contributor overall.

Crawford's recent production has been inconsistent. In 2025, he accumulated 2.8 fWAR with a 113 wRC+ across 154 games. His numbers declined in 2026, when he produced 1.2 fWAR and a 105 wRC+ in 116 games. He finished the season with a .221/.335/.352 line and 14 home runs. His ability to get on base remained a positive, even as his overall production slipped.

Seattle also changed Crawford's defensive responsibilities during the 2026 season. The Mariners moved him to third base to open a spot for top prospect Colt Emerson, giving Crawford additional experience at the hot corner after years as the team's primary shortstop.

That transition could help Minnesota, although Crawford's declining defensive metrics deserve attention. He recorded -12 Defensive Runs Saved and -13 Outs Above Average in 720 innings at shortstop in 2026. His numbers improved to zero in both categories across 254 1/3 innings at third base, but that is a relatively limited sample.

Crawford is no longer the defensive player he was earlier in his career. The Twins would need to evaluate whether his current defensive ability translates to second base or whether he is best suited for a reduced role across the infield.

Where Would Crawford Fit in Minnesota?

At first glance, the Twins do not have an obvious vacancy for Crawford. Brooks Lee is positioned to handle third base, while Kaelen Culpepper could enter 2027 as the starting shortstop. Both players represent important parts of Minnesota's efforts to build around younger talent.

Second base provides a more interesting possibility. Kody Clemens currently appears positioned to handle that assignment, but his versatility could be valuable if the Twins add another regular contributor. Minnesota could move Clemens between first base, second base and other positions as needed, creating opportunities to rest players without significantly weakening the lineup.

Crawford has limited experience at second base, recording 32 1/3 innings at the position in 2017. That is not enough to guarantee he could successfully handle the spot every day, but it gives the Twins a reason to explore the possibility rather than dismissing him because the roster already includes a shortstop and third baseman.

Royce Lewis is another important part of this equation. After three below-average seasons, Minnesota could consider moving on from the former first overall pick. If Lewis is no longer part of the long-term plan, the Twins would have another opening to address, and Crawford's ability to move around the infield could become more valuable.

There is also the longer-term picture to consider. Marek Houston is an intriguing young shortstop prospect who could eventually push his way into the major league lineup. Signing Crawford would not need to block that development. Instead, a veteran infielder could help bridge the gap while allowing Minnesota to adjust its alignment as young players progress.

The key is avoiding a situation where Crawford occupies a spot without providing a clear upgrade. The Twins need to establish his defensive home and determine how his presence would affect Lee, Culpepper and Clemens before making an offer.

What Would Crawford Cost?

Bowden's projected two-year, $20 million contract provides a reasonable starting point for evaluating Crawford's market. That would represent an average annual value of $10 million, a manageable commitment compared with the cost of signing some of the offseason's more prominent free agents.

Crawford's 2026 performance could give the Twins some negotiating leverage. His offensive production declined from the previous season, and his defensive numbers at shortstop raise questions about how much value he can provide at that position. Those concerns could prevent him from receiving the kind of contract available to younger players or established impact infielders.

At the same time, his experience and history of reaching base should appeal to a team looking for a dependable major league contributor. His 2025 season also offers evidence that he can still provide meaningful value when his bat is productive.

Minnesota should not assume Crawford can return to his previous defensive form, nor should it pay for the player he was several years ago. Any contract needs to reflect the possibility that his best remaining role is as a second baseman and utility infielder rather than an everyday shortstop.

Still, two years at $20 million would give the Twins a veteran with a lengthy major league track record without requiring an extended commitment. If Crawford performs well, he could become a dependable part of the lineup. If his production continues to decline, the contract would not tie Minnesota to him for several seasons.

Should the Twins Pursue Crawford?

The Twins have plenty of young infield talent, but having options is not the same as having every position solved. Lee and Culpepper need opportunities to establish themselves, Clemens offers useful versatility, and Houston could eventually change the infield picture again.

Crawford would add another experienced player to that mix. His defensive decline makes him a less attractive candidate to serve as Minnesota's everyday shortstop, but his offensive approach, major league experience and ability to move around the diamond remain appealing.

The Twins should be willing to offer Crawford the two-year, $20 million contract Bowden projects if other free agent options don't pan out. That price would represent a reasonable investment in a player who could provide lineup flexibility while the organization evaluates its younger infielders. However, it seems more likely for the Twins to be in the market for an infield bat with more upside. 

Minnesota would need a clear plan for getting Crawford regular playing time, particularly at second base. However, if the Twins can find that fit, Crawford could be a useful addition to the 2027 roster without preventing the organization's young players from earning their opportunities.

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Should the Twins pursue Crawford? How would he fit in the team’s infield plans? Leave a comment and start the discussion.

 

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[DocBauer]

The Twins have TWO spots to figure out in the INF for 2027. The first is a 1B or 2B with some power and RBI ability to hit in the middle portion of the lineup. Is there a FA that fits that need? Do they go the trade route? Clemens can play which ever spot remains open.

After that, they need a quality depth option to help cover the INF when guys are hurt, or even just need a day off. While it remains to be seen exactly just how good/bad Kreidler's bat really is, he's a quality 6 position defender, which includes SS. While I'm hoping Ross or someone else will replace him and offer up better offense, he's not a bad option for that role to begin with.

But they need someone better for PROPER depth. Someone with a half way decent bat and glove to help cover 1B/2B/3B. That person could be Lewis were he willing to accept that role, with the idea that the better he performs the more he probably plays. But would he accept it? 

That's where someone like Crawford comes in to play, pun partially intended. He could be the #3 SS, and he should be able to handle the other 3 spots, reasonably well, as a 6 foot former full time SS. The bat/OPS makes him an excellent depth option this team hasn't had for a few years.

Not certain the best option to fill spot #1, but Crawford could be a fine choice to fill spot #2.

[Nashvilletwin]

4 hours ago, DocBauer said:

The Twins have TWO spots to figure out in the INF for 2027. The first is a 1B or 2B with some power and RBI ability to hit in the middle portion of the lineup. Is there a FA that fits that need? Do they go the trade route? Clemens can play which ever spot remains open.

After that, they need a quality depth option to help cover the INF when guys are hurt, or even just need a day off. While it remains to be seen exactly just how good/bad Kreidler's bat really is, he's a quality 6 position defender, which includes SS. While I'm hoping Ross or someone else will replace him and offer up better offense, he's not a bad option for that role to begin with.

But they need someone better for PROPER depth. Someone with a half way decent bat and glove to help cover 1B/2B/3B. That person could be Lewis were he willing to accept that role, with the idea that the better he performs the more he probably plays. But would he accept it? 

That's where someone like Crawford comes in to play, pun partially intended. He could be the #3 SS, and he should be able to handle the other 3 spots, reasonably well, as a 6 foot former full time SS. The bat/OPS makes him an excellent depth option this team hasn't had for a few years.

Not certain the best option to fill spot #1, but Crawford could be a fine choice to fill spot #2.

Good reasoning, but he’s way too expensive for spot #2.   Assuming we could sign maybe two decent position players, Crawford is behind the more expensive Jeffers (we need C1 before  Utility IF), Arraez (2B1 with eventual move to 1B1/DH when Houston arrives) and Bauers (1B1 with Clemens starting at 2B1 and moving to super utility when Houston comes up).

Besides, at that price there may be pressure to delay Houston - this organization cannot be in the prospect blocking game in 2027.  Period. 

Pass - Ross, Kreidler, someone cheaper/more expendable for slot #2.

[Althebum82]

I see the Athletic is projecting him to land first with the Cardinals, secondarily with the Twins.

That has me scratching my head saying, "Why here?", as I play out in my mind the visions of a past-his-prime player being added to this roster.

Which is exactly why it is likely to happen, sadly.

He is not a solution at 1B or 2B for which to pay a premium.  Sorry, this is an easy "no thanks" from me at any price.

[Patzky]

16 minutes ago, Althebum82 said:

I see the Athletic is projecting him to land first with the Cardinals, secondarily with the Twins.

That has me scratching my head saying, "Why here?", as I play out in my mind the visions of a past-his-prime player being added to this roster.

Which is exactly why it is likely to happen, sadly.

He is not a solution at 1B or 2B for which to pay a premium.  Sorry, this is an easy "no thanks" from me at any price.

Geez let's just get Ty France if this is the plan moving forward.

 

On an unrelated note I just got my first pop up ad on Twins Daily! Like the uniform ad patch, it's how things work.

[DJL44]

No reason to give him 2 years or $20M. Crawford could be a worthwhile addition if they miss out on everything else and he’s still around in February. 1 year and $5M is a better number. Of course, if they’re settling for Crawford then the rest of the roster didn’t get upgraded and it’s probably time to sell and rebuild for 2028. In that scenario they will need a few veteran placeholders to make sure they aren’t giving waiver wire talent like Tristan Gray 300 plate appearances.

[TopGunn#22]

I agree Patzky !!  Why would we pay Crawford $10 million per year for 2 years when we could just sign Ty France to fill a position of need??  With Culpepper looking serviceable at SS and Marek Houston highly probable to join the Twins sometime in 2027, there is no need to sign Crawford.  Certainly not at $20 million for 2 years.  I'd rather spend that on a solid BP arm and Ty France.  

[DJL44]

17 minutes ago, TopGunn#22 said:

Marek Houston highly probable to join the Twins sometime in 2027

He’s highly probable to join the team in September like Culpepper did in 2026.

[thelanges5]

When I see Bowden as the author, I pass. 

[Andy MacPhail]

I don't give Bowden any credence. Most everything he comes up with, I scratch my head, wondering how he came up with them?! This is another one of them, it makes absolutely no sense. The smart thing to do is what MIL does, to develop & play our own players. In this case, if we stick to our own, it'd be cheaper & better now & much better in the near future. Bowden is not worth quoting, I avoid listening to his ideas pertaining to these subjects. Crawford's position now is 3B, what do we do with our GG nominee, Lee? Our biggest INF problem is 2B, how does Crawford solve that? Why do we create an expensive inferior logjam when Houston is knocking at the door, whose glove is already MLB-ready? Let's find better ways to spend Twins' money.

[Richie the Rally Goat]

This is a Twins type of move. I hope Zoll has learned from the mistakes of the past.

[old nurse]

28 minutes ago, Richie the Rally Goat said:

This is a Twins type of move. I hope Zoll has learned from the mistakes of the past.

Position player wise, stars past their prime the Twins addd were Donaldson, Cruz, Simmons, and Carlos Santana. Only one, Donaldson,  was an abysmal failure.   Simmons was what he was many of the previous years. An overpay, but about the same level of production as others signed to short term contracts. Santana and Cruz were far better than expected 

[rdehring]

He got moved off shortstop.  His bat is declining as he ages and we have a wonderful young shortstop on the way who will require some juggling of the roster at the positions this guy can play.  And someone is suggesting the Twins pay him $20MM for two years.  I say no, no and NO! 

[bean5302]

Crawford's athleticism is gone. He went from a 60 grade runner in his early years to a 40 grade runner now (similar to Trevor Larnach in quickness and speed) and his arm has declined from below average for SS (say 50 grade-ish) to 40 (noodle) grade at this point. His strongest throw last year was 81.9mph where his average was 80.2mph.

Compare that to Brooks Lee, who has an arm which is not suited to SS at 85.3mph and average 82.5mph. 

Crawford needs to hit the gym and training facilities like he's never hit them before. He's coming into his age 32 season, and he needs to add a lot of explosiveness without adding weight if he's going to be more valuable than Culpepper at SS or Clemens at 2B. I don't like Crawford as an addition at all.

[HarmonK03]

3 hours ago, DJL44 said:

He’s highly probable to join the team in September like Culpepper did in 2026.

That's probably the plan with this front office in the best case scenario and this front office does not deviate from the plan even if he shows he is ready.

[HarmonK03]

2 hours ago, Richie the Rally Goat said:

This is a Twins type of move. I hope Zoll has learned from the mistakes of the past.

Since Zoll has been a key member of the front office for the last six years at least, he has contributed to these mistakes, I am not sure they will learn from their mistakes or anything will change until there is a leader in the baseball operations.

[bjorks]

Let's just spend all the money on Skubal and go Skubal, Pablo, Ryan, Bradley, Prielipp and then we don't have to care as much about defense! lol

 

[DocBauer]

7 hours ago, Nashvilletwin said:

Good reasoning, but he’s way too expensive for spot #2.   Assuming we could sign maybe two decent position players, Crawford is behind the more expensive Jeffers (we need C1 before  Utility IF), Arraez (2B1 with eventual move to 1B1/DH when Houston arrives) and Bauers (1B1 with Clemens starting at 2B1 and moving to super utility when Houston comes up).

Besides, at that price there may be pressure to delay Houston - this organization cannot be in the prospect blocking game in 2027.  Period. 

Pass - Ross, Kreidler, someone cheaper/more expendable for slot #2.

I wonder if there's some confusion here. Ross, Kreidler, etc, ARE cheaper. And he/they backup SS and are a multi position backup. But they are not "depth candidates" like I'm speaking of. Marwin Gonzalez, Kyle Farmer, Willie Castro, THOSE are depth pieces that can help the team when a starter takes a day off, or more to the point, when a starter misses time.

I really don't want Kreidler to be that guy. I want someone who can actually contribute. Lewis could be that guy if he so chooses to accept that role. Crawford could be that guy, and likely be better than Lewis. And he'd better be at twice tge price. But if you don't want him, then find someone who can do the job for less. (Not you directly, I'm referring to the Twins). 

But there is a difference between a.glove first, backup SS and an actual depth piece.

[Patzky]

7 hours ago, thelanges5 said:

When I see Bowden as the author, I pass. 

The stories will cease on December 1st

[Pykkman]

Call me crazy.   But the way Tom Pohlad talks about investing to win makes me think the front office makes a headline splash signing or trade.  This team needs to get the fanbases attention.   I don’t see a splash move AND add Crawford.   I also don’t see Crawford as the type of batter they need to replace the production of Jeffers and Bell.   I’m drinking the kool-Aid- the front office is aiming higher.   Hopefully they can pull it off in poor FA market and looming lock out.