Philadelphia is locking in their top prospect’s role for the 2026 season, yet a hidden catch in the decision could dramatically affect his development. DD
Where will Justin Crawford wind up playing?
The Philadelphia Phillies will have to upgrade their roster in a number of ways this offseason. The outfield is the biggest point of emphasis heading into 2026. They will look in free agency or possibly the trade market to upgrade but may be finally getting some help internally as well.
The Phillies’ top outfield prospect Justin Crawford played in Triple-A Lehigh Valley in 2025 and may finally get his break to join the major league club. Phillies president of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski was hesitant to pull the trigger on promoting Crawford this season.
However, it sounds like Crawford, who will be 22 on Opening Day, will be given a chance at a starting role. The catch is that the Phillies aren’t sure where he can play in the outfield at the major league level.
Justin Crawford could be featured in Phillies outfield in 2026, but where?
Dombrowski held back from promoting Crawford last season after his defense gave the team some pause. The Phillies and the IronPigs wanted Crawford to work on his center field tracking, especially his first steps on fly balls. Although Crawford didn’t get the call-up, he greatly improved his defense down the stretch.
After dropping hints after the season, it looks like Dombrowski is ready to include him in the outfield next year (subscription required), according to The Athletic’s Matt Gelb.
“In my mind, Crawford has a real strong chance to be with our club,” Dombrowski said, per Gelb. “We’re giving him that opportunity to be with our club.”
The question is which outfield position Crawford will play. According to Gelb, Dombrowski “thinks” Crawford can play center field and would be “comfortable” with him there but sounds unsure if that’s the best thing for the Phillies. Dombrowski mentioned that Crawford might be better suited for left field.
With some doubt about his ability in center, the Phillies would be willing to still put him in a corner spot if he can’t lock down the center field defense. The Phillies would like Crawford to take the center field spot in stride with his heavy dose of contact and speed. That way, they could explore other options at the corners, where traditionally, more power exists.
In 112 games for the IronPigs in 2025, Crawford hit a whopping .334 with 34 extra-base hits. He also stole 46 bases while only being caught 11 times. He’ll give the Phillies a new look on speed and remaining a dynamic offense. He’s currently ranked as the Phillies’ No. 3 prospect and No. 10 among MLB Pipeline’s outfield prospects.
Dombrowski and the Phillies won’t find all their answers with Crawford making his debut, but it eliminates at least one position to address for the offseason. The Phillies will still naturally look at external options, but promoting Crawford could be just as exciting.
