The Philadelphia Phillies have a riddle to solve in their center field position. They're hoping outfield prospect Justin Crawford is the solution to that problem. There have been some questions regarding Crawford's defense and his long-term success at the center field position specifically.
Challenges have presented themselves early on for Crawford, but the latest report suggests he's doing everything possible to overcome them. According to Charlotte Varnes of The Athletic, Crawford made it a priority to address his flaws in the field this offseason (subscription required).
With hopes that Crawford will be the Phillies' Opening Day center fielder, he started working with three-time Gold Glove center fielder Eric Davis in his hometown of Phoenix, Arizona. Crawford's drive to improve defensively could have a massive payoff once he takes over the Phillies' center field position, hopefully for years to come.
There's hope for Justin Crawford to improve his defense and lock down center field for the Phillies
There's a lot to like about Crawford's player profile heading into 2026. His speed and bat-to-ball skills are well above average and could feasibly translate at the MLB level. He finished the 2025 season with a slash line of .334/.411/.452, good for a .863 OPS. Crawford's batting average led the entire International League at the Triple A level, and his 46 stolen bases ranked third.
The Athletic's Keith Law recently ranked Crawford as the 11th-best outfield prospect (subscription required). The only issue that keeps rearing its ugly head is Crawford's defense.
Working with any former big league player is a great opportunity for a young player like Crawford. The 22-year-old has struggled with initial fly ball reads off the bat and has subsequently taken less effective routes to the baseball. According to Varnes, Crawford has been able to make up for some of it with his speed, but Davis' tips are helping him get into a better starting position and take more efficient routes. His speed is now just the cherry on top, instead of being the only weapon he has to rely on.
Center fielders are the captains of the outfield, and that's what the Phillies hope he blossoms into. The Phillies have had a revolving door at the position for numerous years. Crawford is working his way towards being a cornerstone for the club's future if he continues to grow and learn the position. The corner outfield spots would be an easier adjustment for him, but his offensive production would make him a perfect center fielder at the MLB level.
Crawford was selected 17th overall in the 2022 MLB Draft and has worked his way through the minors, quite like his dad, Carl Crawford, did 24 years prior. There are growing pains with any minor leaguer looking to make the big leap to the majors. He doesn't have to come out and flash the leather immediately, but Crawford has time, and Phillies fans can't wait to see what he turns into come springtime.