In a late-spring training roster decision, the Washington Nationals optioned outfielder Dylan Crews to Triple-A Rochester on Friday in West Palm Beach, Florida. The No. 2 overall pick from the 2023 draft struggled offensively in Grapefruit League play, hitting .103/.206/.103. Manager Blake Butera emphasized belief in Crews' future role with the team.
The move came as the Nationals' camp wound down, with Crews posting a .309 OPS over 12 spring games. He debuted in the majors on August 26, 2024, but batted .208 across 85 games last season amid injuries and offensive challenges. Butera called it a tough late-camp decision, stating, “Ultimately, it's always a hard decision, these types of moves this late in spring. ... We just think the best thing for Dylan and the organization right now is at least for him to start in Triple-A. Our thoughts on Dylan as a person, as a player, have only changed in a positive direction. ” Crews responded professionally, as Butera noted: “Credit to Dylan, he took it like a pro. He was awesome. ... His response was like, I understand this is tough but I’m going to go do my thing and I’m going to show you guys when I’m ready to go.” In Rochester with the Red Wings, Crews will join Robert Hassell III and Andrew Pinckney (No. 19 prospect), playing all outfield spots to refine adjustments without big-league pressure. Butera praised Crews as a “plus-defender” and anticipates a quick return: “We expect him up here hopefully soon.” The Nationals project James Wood, Jacob Young, and Daylen Lile in the starting outfield, with Joey Wiemer and Christian Franklin (No. 18 prospect) still in camp. Roster finalization awaits after exhibitions against the Orioles on Sunday and Monday, before the season opener Thursday at Wrigley Field. Butera affirmed Crews' importance: “When we see ourselves making a playoff push ... we envision him running in from the outfield to that dog pile.”
