The Washington Nationals are set to bring up outfielder Dylan Crews, currently ranked as the third-best prospect in Major League Baseball, for his debut on Monday night against the New York Yankees, as confirmed by a source familiar with the decision on Friday. The individual, who chose to remain anonymous as the move had not been made public, disclosed the news to The Associated Press.
Crews, aged 22, was selected as the second overall pick by the Nationals last year, directly after his LSU teammate Paul Skenes was chosen first by the Pittsburgh Pirates. The young player has swiftly progressed through the minor leagues, boasting a .272 batting average with 13 home runs and 68 RBIs in 99 games this season split between Double-A Harrisburg and Triple-A Rochester.
He will be joining 21-year-old James Wood in the Nationals’ youthful outfield. Wood made his debut on July 1 after being acquired in a trade that saw Juan Soto transferred to San Diego in 2022. Despite clinching the World Series title in 2019, Washington has struggled to achieve a winning season since, making significant roster changes under the management of general manager Mike Rizzo.
Currently, with a record of 58-70 before their game against the Atlanta Braves on Friday night, the Nationals have continued to trade players this season, focusing on developing their young talents. Crews is expected to enhance Washington’s outfield, forming a strong trio with Wood and center fielder Jacob Young, known for his defensive skills and 29 stolen bases this season.
Following the departure of Lane Thomas to Cleveland, Alex Call has predominantly filled the right field position, hitting .347 in 29 games. However, the organization believes Crews holds greater potential and could bring additional firepower to their lineup. As a standout performer in Division I college baseball, Crews, along with hard-throwing pitcher Skenes, helped lead LSU to victory in the College World Series last year, earning him the prestigious Golden Spikes Award for the nation’s best amateur player. Crews signed with Washington for a significant $9 million bonus upon joining the team.