Dylan Crews’ Uncertain MLB Future
The offseason has brought an unexpected shift for Dylan Crews, leaving the once-promising prospect as an afterthought for the Washington Nationals. As the No. 2 overall pick in the 2023 draft, expectations were sky-high. Many anticipated that he could be in the conversation for National League Rookie of the Year. Fast forward to now, and Crews finds himself overshadowed in the Nationals’ outfield, where he ranks third in discussions about the team’s future.
This downturn is a tough reality for both the player and the franchise. After being hailed as a potential superstar out of LSU, Crews has yet to deliver on that promise in the majors. While it’s premature to dismiss his future, it is evident that he has significant work to do before he can be considered a foundational piece for the Nationals.
A Fresh Start Under New Leadership
The arrival of a new front office and coaching staff offers Crews a glimmer of hope. President of baseball operations Paul Toboni and his team are known for their progressive approach to player development. Similarly, manager Blake Butera brings a wealth of knowledge in analytics, which could be crucial in refining Crews’ abilities. The combination of a forward-thinking regime and a supportive coaching environment presents an opportunity for Crews to rediscover his game.
Sam Sallick from Federal Baseball recently pointed out that Crews is one of three players who could significantly benefit from this new direction. “Right now the biggest problem for Crews is his angles,” Sallick noted. “He is hitting too many ground balls and not pulling the ball in the air enough to unlock his power.”
Crews’ ground ball rate exceeds 50%, a concerning statistic that has hindered his offensive production. Last season, he also struggled with strikeouts, an anomaly for a player of his caliber. Observers noted that he appeared uncomfortable at the plate, indicating a need for adjustment and support.
The Tools Are There
Despite these challenges, the raw talent that made Crews a coveted prospect remains intact. His ability to hit the ball hard and impressive bat speed are attributes that can be harnessed with the right guidance. As Sallick pointed out, he is “waiting to be unlocked by the right hitting coach.”
The key for Crews will be not just adapting his mechanics but also regaining confidence in his approach at the plate. With a fresh regime at the helm, there is hope that they can tap into Crews’ potential and allow him to flourish in the major leagues.
As the offseason progresses, all eyes will be on Crews. Can the Nationals’ new leadership unlock the promise that once had everyone buzzing? With the right adjustments and support, the answer could very well be yes.
