The Philadelphia Phillies’ outfield situation heading into 2024 is far from ideal, and it’s clear the front office is committed to addressing the issues that plagued the team last season. While high-profile free agents like Anthony Santander, Teoscar Hernández, and even Juan Soto have been mentioned as potential additions to improve the outfield offense, there’s a lack of strong options on the market for a true center fielder.
With Johan Rojas struggling to secure a spot, particularly in the critical center field position, attention has turned to top prospect Justin Crawford. Ranked No. 3 in the Phillies’ farm system by MLB Pipeline, Crawford had a standout 2024 season, excelling after his promotion to Double-A. Named the 2024 Paul Owens Award winner as the best position player in the system, Crawford’s impressive performance has led to calls for him to get a chance at the major league level. Currently playing for Team USA in the Premier12 tournament, Crawford, who turns 21 in January, is likely to receive a look in spring training. But will the Phillies seriously consider him for 2025?
According to new general manager Preston Mattingly, the possibility of Crawford joining the team as the center fielder in 2025 is a real one. Speaking on the High Hopes podcast, Mattingly praised Crawford’s development, particularly his performance at just 20 years old in Double-A.
“It was impressive what he did, you know, a 20-year-old finishing the year in Double-A,” Mattingly said. “The success he had, and I think he’s just scratching the surface on what he can do. If Justin continues to get the ball in the air, it’s going to be an extremely dynamic player.”
In 2024, Crawford hit .333 with an .834 OPS in 40 games in Double-A, showing his power and speed with three home runs, 11 doubles, 26 RBIs, and 15 stolen bases in 180 plate appearances.
When asked if Crawford could earn a spot on the Opening Day roster, Mattingly’s response was telling. “I think anybody that gets invited to big league spring training, to me, you’re competing for a job,” he said. “I think with the way our roster is constructed right now, if I were Justin, I would be coming in to try and win a job.”
Mattingly, who previously served as the Phillies’ director of player development, knows Crawford’s potential well. While it’s still uncertain whether Crawford will break camp with the team, the door is open for him to make the roster. Given his impressive trajectory, it’s not hard to imagine Crawford patrolling center field at Citizens Bank Park at some point in 2025.
