Justin Crawford starts 2025 season at Triple-A Lehigh Valley

Phillies prospect Justin Crawford will start the 2025 season in Triple-A. He will join Gabriel Rincones Jr. in the outfield for the Lehigh Valley team, according to team sources. Crawford is 21 years old and played only 40 games at Double-A Reading last season. However, the Phillies were impressed with his performance this spring. They believe he is ready for a higher level of competition. The decision to move Crawford up to Triple-A is seen as a bold step. The team wants to challenge him with better pitching and see how he responds. They have noted improvements in his offseason training and his ability to make good contact during games. Crawford is still developing, and his physical growth continues. If he performs well, there is speculation he could be called up to the majors, especially if current outfielders struggle. The Phillies are eager to see how he handles the challenges of being one of the youngest players in the International League.