Nationals Send 2023 No. 2 Pick Dylan Crews to Triple-A

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — The Washington Nationals optioned outfielder Dylan Crews to Triple-A Rochester on March 20, 2026. The move came one week before Opening Day and was announced during spring training. Updated 2:25 p.m. EDT.

Crews was the No. 2 pick in the 2023 MLB Draft and is 24 years old. He struggled at the plate during Grapefruit League play and failed to reach his early projections.

Team officials cited a development-first approach. The Nationals’ new front office has signaled it will avoid rushing prospects into big-league roles.

Nationals Send 2023 No. 2 Pick Dylan Crews to Triple-A appears consistent with that philosophy. The club wants Crews to get regular at-bats and defensive reps in Rochester.

Why Crews was optioned

Performance was the primary factor in the decision. Crews did not hit well enough this spring to secure an Opening Day roster spot.

He was previously billed as an impact hitter with a strong outfield glove. The organization prefers steady, incremental progress.

What to expect in Rochester

Crews will likely play every day at Triple-A. The assignment should provide consistent plate appearances and defensive work.

The team will monitor his progress closely. A call-up remains possible if he shows improvement.

Roster implications

The option creates an opening on the 26-man roster for Opening Day. The Nationals can carry additional depth while keeping long-term prospects on track.

The front office emphasized patience over haste. The move aligns with the club’s broader development strategy.

Filmogaz.com will follow roster updates and report any changes to Crews’s status. This story will be updated as new information becomes available.