Philadelphia Phillies: Roster expansions perfect for J.P. Crawford
J.P. Crawford hasn’t had the greatest season. After struggling through most of the year he has shown recently why he has been a top 5 prospect in the Philadelphia Phillies system for several years. As September rolls around Crawford looks to be on his way to the majors, but at what position?
With the surprising decision to start Freddy Galvis in center field during the second game of a double header on August 30th, Philadelphia Phillies fans were reminded that J.P. Crawford continues to knock on the door of the major leagues. Galvis has started every single game this season at shortstop, but as the rosters get ready to expand manager Pete Mackanin needs to see where players fit for next season.
When Crawford was drafted 16th overall in the 2013 MLB Draft, he was looked at as the superstar of the future. This season hasn’t been kind to Crawford as he has seen many sour on his game and question if he can contribute at the major league level. With Galvis providing veteran leadership, a slick glove, and enough of a bat to stick around, it is a fair question whether Crawford will get his shot to start next season.
Even with all of this going against him, Crawford has started to turn a corner. After a disastrous first 3 months where he hit just .203, the last 2 months have seen him raise his average to a still low, but more respectable .237, with a high of .246 over this hot streak.
Optimizing Crawford
September is the time for teams out of playoff contention to see what they have to look forward to in the future. By giving Galvis time in the outfield and throwing Crawford out at third base and second base, the Phillies are giving them both a chance to prove they belong in the teams long term plans, no matter where they play in the field.
The Philadelphia Phillies have a dilemma on their hands, Galvis hasn’t given them a reason to take him out of the lineup, but once rosters expand Crawford needs time to prove he is still a key piece of the future. The outfield is already full next year, so Galvis’ center field experiment won’t last. The more likely scenario would be a type of super utility role next year.
Next: Where does Rhys Hoskins rank amongst other young Philly stars?
With so many prospects ready to battle for starting spots in the majors, many of the starters this year could be pushed out of the lineup. Freddy Galvis has given the Phillies several years of quality play at shortstop, but it is in doubt that he is the future at the position. September will fill the Phillies roster with tons of potential, and J.P. Crawford is sure to lead the charge.