DRAFT PICK OPTIONED TO TRIPLE-A AS NATIONALS MAKE SPRING CAMP MOVES The Washington Nationals made a notable roster adjustment as spring training neared its conclusion, sending outfielder Dylan Crews to Triple-A Rochester on Friday. The decision came after Crews, the No. 2 overall pick in the 2023 Draft, struggled to make an impact in his first 12 Grapefruit League games, posting a .103/.206/.103 slash line with a .309 OPS. Manager Blake Butera acknowledged the difficulty of the move, emphasizing the team’s confidence in Crews’ potential. Crews, who joined the majors in August 2024, faced challenges in his first full season with the Nationals, batting .208 in 85 games. His performance in spring training, combined with previous struggles, led to the decision. Butera noted that Crews’ response to the news was professional, with the player expressing commitment to improving in Triple-A. “He took it like a pro,” Butera said. “He understood the plan and is ready to work on the adjustments our hitting group will outline for him.” The move aims to provide Crews with a focused environment to refine his offensive approach. Butera highlighted Crews’ recent progress, including a five-pitch walk in his first at-bat against the Cardinals. The manager also stressed that the decision was not a reflection of Crews’ value to the team, stating, “We envision him running in from the outfield to that dog pile” during potential playoff runs. Crews will join Triple-A Rochester’s outfield rotation, where he will play all three positions alongside Robert Hassell III and Andrew Pinckney, a No. 19 prospect. Butera praised Crews’ defensive skills, calling him a “plus-defender,” and hopes the reduced pressure will allow him to focus on improving his hitting.#washington_nationals #blake_butera #dylan_crews #triple_a_rochester #robert_hassell_iii
