Crawford Takes A Step Closer To Philly

PHILADELPHIA—The Phillies have added a number of quality prospects through trades over the past year, but the most talked-about youngster in the system remains 21-year-old J.P. Crawford, the team’s top pick in the 2013 draft from Lakewood (Calif.) High.

Crawford projects as the team’s shortstop of the future, and fans are eager to know when the future will arrive.

It got a little closer in mid-May when Crawford graduated to Triple-A Lehigh Valley.

“We sent him back to Double-A (Reading) to start the season because we wanted him to work on a few things,” general manager Matt Klentak said. “He has done that.

“He’s ready for the next stage in his development, ready for a new challenge. Hopefully, his development will continue, and he starts to force his way to Philadelphia.”

In 122 games at Reading over the past two seasons, the lefty-hitting Crawford hit .265/.367/.402 with more walks (79) than strikeouts (66) in 487 at-bats.

At the time of his promotion, Crawford was the second-youngest player in the International League after 19-year-old Braves shortstop Ozzie Albies.

“J.P. controls the strike zone well, particularly for someone who has typically been one of the youngest players in his league,” Klentak said. “His entire performance has gotten more consistent.”

The Phillies are looking for more consistent defense from Crawford, who recorded a .953 fielding percentage in 2015.

Team officials say he has slowed his hands when fielding and transferring the ball, and that has made him more consistent. In spring training, Crawford worked on that fundamental with bench coach Larry Bowa.

“He’s a big-time player,” Bowa said. “He’s got some swagger, but not in a bad way.”

Crawford is focused on playing well at Lehigh Valley, but it would not be surprising to see him receive a look in Philadelphia later this season.

“If it happens, it happens,” Crawford said. “I’m not going to think about it. I’m just trying to be consistent in the field and on defense.”

PHIL-UPS

• The Phillies signed 27-year-old Cuban outfielder Osmel Aguila for $100,000. He will provide depth at the upper levels of the system.

• Low Class A Clearwater left fielder Cornelius Randolph, a first-round pick last year, is expected to return in early June. A left shoulder strain sidelined him after 12 games.