Struggling Dylan Crews Faces Major League Challenges with Nationals

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Dylan Crews, the Washington Nationals’ former number one prospect, is facing significant challenges in his Major League debut after being drafted second overall in the 2023 MLB draft from LSU. After a promising start through the minor leagues, Crews joined the major league roster yet has struggled offensively.

Defensively, Crews has demonstrated his ability to play effectively in all outfield positions, but his batting performance has been concerning. The Nationals may consider optioning him to the Triple-A Harrisburg Senators, as he approaches 100 games in the majors and is just five plate appearances short of 300, making his struggles more pronounced.

Crews was expected to shine as one of the league’s brightest stars, but his performance starkly contrasts that of his teammate James Wood, who has gained recognition and is on track for an All-Star selection this year.

The pattern of top draft picks facing challenges at the Major League level is not uncommon. For instance, Spencer Torkelson, the No. 1 pick in the 2020 MLB draft, has had a mix of success and struggles during his career with the Detroit Tigers. While Torkelson has shown potential, he has also been a streaky hitter, leading to multiple options to the minors.

Washington’s situation with Crews has become precarious. Although facing tough pitching may sharpen his skills, it does little to aid his mental state, with his performance deteriorating. In March and April, Crews posted an OPS of .597, but this dropped to .490 in May.

As of now, the Nationals must decide how to facilitate Crews’ development as he continues to search for offensive consistency at the Major League level.