J.P. Crawford
The city of Philadelphia has long awaited the emergence of JP Crawford and it has finally come. Gold Glove finalist Freddy Galvis’ departure via trade was the final salvo on the road to Crawford becoming the Phillies’ everyday shortstop.
Crawford is poised to take the starting role as his long-awaited role will finally come to fruition in 2018. He has long been the Phillies’ most coveted prospect and he will get the chance to prove himself in 2018. Crawford hit an underwhelming .214 in his first 87 Major League plate appearances.
This should not be cause for concern, as his performance in such a small sample size will not be a barometer for success this upcoming year. Additionally, he will have time to properly adjust in 2018, as he will be getting everyday at-bats against top-level pitching.
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One consistent aspect of Crawford’s game was his defense as he showed flashes with the glove of the talent scouts have clamored about. Matt Klentak has properly assembled a situation for JP Crawford to smoothly transition into the team’s everyday shortstop and bring his long talked about potential to fruition in Philadelphia.