Phillies’ Rob Thomson Explains Justin Crawford Decision After Two Losses
Phillies manager Rob Thomson plans to give center fielder Justin Crawford a rest for the next game. The decision comes just three games into the season.
Manager’s explanation
Thomson said the move is meant to rest Crawford and keep him available off the bench. The manager framed it as a short-term plan to manage playing time.
Rob Thomson explained the Justin Crawford decision after two losses by saying rest and roster flexibility motivated the choice. Thomson also expressed confidence in Crawford’s long-term role.
Lineup changes and matchup
Outfielder Brandon Marsh is expected to start in center field. That shift likely moves Otto Kemp to left field and Adolis Garcia to right.
The Phillies face the Washington Nationals, who plan to start left-hander Foster Griffin. The lefty start makes the rest day easier to justify.
Crawford’s early performance
In his major-league debut on Opening Day, Crawford collected two hits in a win over the Texas Rangers. The quick success reinforced team belief in his upside.
Thomson has praised Crawford’s hitting instincts and ability to adjust at the plate. The manager has emphasized Crawford must continue earning his spot.
Player background
Crawford starred at Louisiana State University across 112 games. He finished with a .334 batting average, seven home runs, 47 RBIs and 46 stolen bases.
The Phillies selected him in the 2022 MLB Draft and kept him in the minors for development. The club selected his contract for the 2026 season after he made the Opening Day roster.
Season context
The Phillies sit near the bottom of the NL East early in the campaign. The team seeks a quick turnaround after a rough start.
Philadelphia entered the season after finishing first in the division in 2025. That year ended with an NLDS loss to the Los Angeles Dodgers.
The short-term rest aims to protect Crawford and the club’s depth. The Phillies hope the adjustment fuels a swift recovery in the standings.
