Phils Prospect Masters 'Unsexy' Bunt

Philadelphia Phillies prospect Justin Crawford is actively honing his bunting skills, dedicating early mornings to practice. This dedication to the 'short game' is a passion he shares with bench coach Shawn Williams, who emphasizes the strategic importance of "location, location, location" in bunting.

Crawford's commitment is evident, as his eight bunt hits last season at Triple-A Lehigh Valley significantly influenced his batting average. The Phillies aim to utilize his speed and bunting prowess to disrupt opposing defenses, potentially creating chaos from the No. 9 spot in the batting order. This approach contrasts with the league's focus on power hitting, positioning Crawford as a unique asset for the team.

Manager Rob Thomson believes Crawford's ability to "get on base and create a lot of chaos on the bases" is a key part of his game. Crawford himself takes pride in this aspect, understanding how bunting can open up the field and contribute to his overall offensive strategy. His focus and diligent work ethic are seen as the driving forces behind his developing bunting mastery.