In Allentown, Pennsylvania, Justin Crawford made a significant impact during the MLB Pipeline Prospect Showcase. As a leadoff hitter for the Triple-A Lehigh Valley IronPigs, Crawford reached base in all four of his plate appearances, contributing to the team’s 3-2 victory over Norfolk at Coca-Cola Park.
Crawford’s performance included two walks and two singles, along with two stolen bases. “I take that role on fully,” Crawford stated about his position as a leadoff hitter. He emphasized the importance of seeing pitches and having quality at-bats.
His efforts pushed his batting average to .329 through 77 games, making it the third-best in the International League and second-best among players aged 21 or younger in Triple-A. His on-base percentage stands at .413, ranking seventh in the league.
Crawford has been refining his approach at the plate, focusing on reducing his chase rate. On Tuesday, he swung at only one pitch outside of the zone from Norfolk starter Thaddeus Ward. “Definitely the down-and-in sliders and high heaters sometimes kind of get me,” he admitted but is working to improve.
With a career .319 average in the Minors, Crawford is known for putting balls in play and utilizing his speed effectively. Despite concerns about his ground ball rate and slugging percentage (.428), he has managed 31 steals in 40 attempts this season.
The Phillies are considering their options ahead of the Trade Deadline, with Crawford being a potential candidate for promotion if needed. President of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski commented on Crawford’s status: “He is a player that is very good, very talented… But if we had to bring him up… it’s not like he can’t contribute by any means.”
Crawford remains focused on performing well for his team: “Whatever happens with them or what they do with me, it’s all up to them,” he said.
Keaton Anthony contributed with a game-tying solo home run in the eighth inning, while Rodolfo Castro secured victory with a walk-off homer in the ninth inning against Tides reliever Matt Bowman.
Adley Rutschman participated in his first rehab game with Norfolk after recovering from an oblique strain since June 19. He recorded a double and a walk during his appearance as designated hitter.
