The Philadelphia Phillies head into Saturday’s game against the Miami Marlins aiming for a fifth straight win. The team has been on a roll since parting ways with former manager Rob Thomson earlier in the week, responding positively under interim skipper Don Mattingly.
A standout contributor during this stretch has been rookie outfielder Justin Crawford. The 22-year-old is currently on a five-game hitting streak, tallying seven hits in 20 at-bats, along with two extra-base hits and three RBIs.
Through 28 games, Crawford is batting .269 with a .340 on-base percentage and a .716 OPS. While he hasn’t hit a home run yet, his speed and defensive ability continue to make an impact.
Originally slated to bat seventh and play center field on Saturday, Crawford was removed from the starting lineup just hours before the game. In the reshuffle, Adolis García shifted to center field, Felix Reyes moved to right, and Garrett Stubbs was added in left field.
Shortly afterward, Scott Lauber of The Philadelphia Inquirer reported that Crawford was scratched due to a migraine.
It’s uncertain if Crawford will be available off the bench, but given the nature of migraines, the Phillies are expected to take a cautious approach. A return in Sunday’s series finale seems more likely.
Crawford remains an important piece of Philadelphia’s future. The 17th overall pick in the 2022 MLB Draft, he entered the majors with high expectations and is now beginning to see consistent playing time in 2026.
With a 13–19 record and hopes of climbing back into contention in the NL East, the Phillies will need Crawford healthy and contributing. For now, they’ll try to extend their winning streak without their promising young center fielder.
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