The Philadelphia Phillies are gearing up for the 2026 season with a familiar core, featuring stars like Alec Bohm, J.T. Realmuto, and Kyle Schwarber.
But don't let that fool you into thinking it's all about the veterans this year. Fresh faces are ready to make their mark, and rookie center fielder Justin Crawford is leading the charge.
Crawford is a contact hitter with lightning speed, and he's already putting that speed to strategic use. In his first Spring Training appearance, Crawford surprised everyone by showing bunt on the very first pitch he faced.
It wasn't just a flashy move; it was a tactical decision. As he explained, the idea is to keep the infielders guessing and on their toes, particularly those at the corners.
"I was just trying to mess with the infielders," Crawford shared. "Make sure they're on their toes.
I like keeping the infielders kind of close on the corners. It kind of opens up the field for me.
I really wasn't going to do it right there, but I definitely wanted them to think I was going to do it."
Crawford may be a rookie, but he's already showing a veteran's savvy at the plate. By hinting at a bunt, he forces the defense to adjust, even if he never intends to lay one down. With his speed, the mere threat of a bunt can change how teams defend against him.
In Triple-A last season, Crawford posted impressive numbers, boasting a .334 batting average, a .411 on-base percentage, and an .863 OPS. While power isn't his main game, his ability to make contact and get on base is undeniable. Once he's on, his speed turns him into a base-stealing threat, capable of turning a simple bunt single into a scoring opportunity.
This clever approach not only manipulates the positioning of the corner infielders but also ensures that defenses can't afford to relax when Crawford is at the plate. It's a strategy that promises to keep opposing teams on their toes all season long.