Phillies top OF prospect Justin Crawford expected to make Opening Day roster originally appeared on The Sporting News.
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The Philadelphia Phillies come into the offseason with a ton of questions. They have to figure out their outfielders for next season, and are at risk of losing Ranger Suarez, Kyle Schwarber, and J.T. Realmuto in free agency.
It will be interesting to see how the front office navigates this. Schwarber has become one of the leaders on the team, and after his impressive 2025 season, this is someone they certainly do not want to lose.
However, even if they can re-sign Schwarber, they have a huge hole to fill in the outfield. However, they do have a talented prospect who looks more than ready to make a name for himself.
Phillies top OF prospect Justin Crawford expected to make Opening Day roster
Justin Crawford is currently ranked as the Phillies’ No. 3 prospect and is the organization’s top outfield prospect. He was drafted in the first round of the 2022 MLB Draft as a high schooler and has been making strides in the minor leagues.
According to The Athletic’s Matt Gelb, he is largely expected to be on the Phillies’ Opening Day roster and will be one to look out for.
“This much is clear: It will somehow involve Justin Crawford. Dombroski has all but decided the prospect will be on the club’s Opening Day roster. It will not include Nick Castellanos, whom the Phillies are actively shopping at this week’s meetings.”
On the flip side, Nick Castellanos’ time with the Phillies is likely over. They are actively trying to find a suitable trade partner for the two-time All-Star.
It will be interesting to see who is interested in acquiring Castellanos. He has taken a step back as he is getting older. Maybe a change of scenery could help him recapture some of the magic he has been missing lately.
More MLB news:
- Trent Grisham’s offensive metrics and mental approach suggest continued dominance
- Mets and Yankees line up for Zac Gallen as Scott Boras touts his value
- Max Scherzer still competitive and not ready to retire, says Scott Boras
- Cody Bellinger’s FA decision won’t be impacted by Trent Grisham’s QO decision
- MLB insider warns Phillies not to lose their ‘most indispensable’ player
