Harriette Oxford

Written by Harriette Oxford

Published: 25 Aug 2024

30-facts-about-dylan-crews
Source: Kxan.com

Who is Dylan Crews? Dylan Crews is a rising star in the baseball world, known for his impressive skills and dedication. Born on February 26, 2002, in Altamonte Springs, Florida, Crews quickly made a name for himself at Lake Mary High School. His journey continued at Louisiana State University (LSU), where he shattered records and earned numerous accolades. From being named National Freshman of the Year to leading LSU to a College World Series victory, Crews has consistently proven his talent. Drafted second overall by the Washington Nationals in 2023, he is now making waves in professional baseball. Let's dive into 30 key facts about this promising athlete.

Table of Contents

Early Life and High School Achievements

Dylan Crews' journey to baseball stardom began in Florida. His early years were marked by impressive performances and dedication to the sport.

  1. Birth and Early Life: Dylan Gray Crews was born on February 26, 2002, in Altamonte Springs, Florida. His early environment fostered his love for baseball.

  2. High School Career: At Lake Mary High School, Crews batted .389 with 15 stolen bases as a junior in 2019, showcasing his speed and hitting prowess.

  3. USA Baseball Experience: Crews played for USA Baseball twice, once on their 14U team and once on their 18U team that won a gold medal. This international exposure honed his skills.

  4. Under Armour All-America Game: In 2019, Crews participated in the Under Armour All-America Baseball Game at Wrigley Field, a prestigious event for top high school players.

College Commitment and LSU Career

Choosing college over immediate professional play, Crews made a significant impact at Louisiana State University (LSU).

  1. College Commitment: Despite being a top prospect for the 2020 MLB draft, Crews chose to play college baseball at LSU.

  2. LSU Career: As a freshman in 2021, Crews became LSU's starting right fielder. He started 63 games, batting .362 with 18 home runs, 42 RBIs, 16 doubles, and 12 stolen bases.

  3. Freshman of the Year: His 18 home runs set a new record for an LSU freshman, surpassing Mike Fontenot's previous record of 17. This earned him National Freshman of the Year honors by Perfect Game.

  4. All-American Honors: Crews earned All-American honors during his freshman year, solidifying his status as one of the top collegiate players.

  5. USA National Team: After his freshman season, he was named to the United States national baseball team, enhancing his international reputation.

  6. Summer League Experience: Crews briefly played for the Sanford River Rats of the Florida Collegiate Summer League, gaining valuable experience in a professional setting.

Transition and Achievements at LSU

Crews continued to evolve and achieve new milestones during his time at LSU.

  1. Shift to Center Field: In 2022, Crews shifted to center field, excelling in this new position both at LSU and in professional leagues.

  2. Co-Southeastern Conference (SEC) Player of the Year: Alongside Sonny DiChiara, Crews was named co-SEC Baseball Player of the Year in 2022, recognizing his outstanding performance.

  3. 2022 Season Stats: During the 2022 season, Crews played in 62 games with a .349/.463/.691 slash line, including 22 home runs and 72 RBIs.

  4. Return to USA Baseball: Following the 2022 season, he returned to play with USA Baseball, demonstrating continued excellence at the national level.

  5. 2023 Season at LSU: In 2023, Crews batted .426 with 18 home runs, 70 RBIs, and 100 runs scored, helping lead LSU to win the 2023 Men's College World Series.

Professional Career and Draft

Crews' transition to professional baseball marked the next chapter in his career.

  1. Draft Prospects: Before the 2023 MLB draft, Crews was considered a top prospect. MLB Pipeline ranked him as the best draft prospect available, projecting him to be selected first overall by the Pittsburgh Pirates.

  2. Draft Selection: The Washington Nationals selected Crews with the second overall pick in the 2023 MLB draft, a significant milestone in his career.

  3. Signing Bonus: On July 21, 2023, Crews signed with the Nationals for a $9 million signing bonus, a substantial amount for a draft pick.

  4. Professional Debut: After signing, Crews was assigned to the Florida Complex League (FCL) Nationals for one game before being promoted to the Single-A Fredericksburg Nationals on August 4, 2023.

  5. Fredericksburg Nationals: During his time with the Fredericksburg Nationals, Crews posted a .355/.423/.645 slash line, showcasing his hitting prowess in the lower levels of professional baseball.

Climbing the Ranks

Crews quickly advanced through the minor leagues, demonstrating his potential at each level.

  1. Promotion to Harrisburg Senators: On August 20, 2023, Crews was promoted to the Double-A Harrisburg Senators, further advancing his career in the Nationals' minor league system.

  2. 2024 Season: In the 2024 season, Crews began with Harrisburg, hitting .274/.343/.446 with five home runs, 38 RBIs, and 15 stolen bases. His performance earned him a promotion to the Triple-A Rochester Red Wings on June 17, 2024.

  3. Futures Game Selection: Crews was selected for the National League Futures Game in 2024, highlighting his potential as a future MLB player.

Player Profile and Skills

Crews' skills and attributes make him a standout player with a bright future.

  1. Player Profile: In his MLB.com draft profile, Crews is described as "a plus hitter with plus power" with a "quick right-handed stroke." However, he has a tendency to whiff on changeups.

  2. Outfielder Skills: The website also describes him as an "at least average" outfielder with arm strength, an ability to track fly balls, and potential to play center field at the major league level.

  3. Five-Tool Player: Crews has been described as a five-tool player, possessing the skills of hitting, power, speed, fielding, and throwing.

  4. Preparedness: Former LSU head coach Paul Mainieri credited Crews with a preparedness for the college level that he compared to that of alumni DJ LeMahieu and Alex Bregman.

Personal Traits and Community Involvement

Beyond his on-field achievements, Crews is known for his character and community involvement.

  1. Community Involvement: Beyond his baseball career, Crews is known for his humble and community-oriented personality. His teammates and coaches often praise his even-keel demeanor and competitive edge.

  2. Impact on the Washington Nationals: Although it is early in his professional career, Crews is already creating an impact on the Washington Nationals organization. His impressive stats and potential have fans and analysts alike excited about his future contributions to the team.

  3. Legacy and Future: As Dylan Crews continues to climb the ranks of professional baseball, his legacy as one of the most promising young players in the sport is being cemented. His dedication, skill, and passion for the game make him a compelling figure to watch in the years to come.

Dylan Crews: A Rising Star

Dylan Crews is making waves in baseball. From his early days at Lake Mary High School to his standout career at LSU, he's shown exceptional talent. His decision to play college ball instead of jumping straight to the MLB draft paid off big time. At LSU, he broke records, earned All-American honors, and even played for the USA national team.

Drafted second overall by the Washington Nationals in 2023, Crews quickly proved his worth in the minors. His impressive stats and rapid promotions show he's on a fast track to the majors. Known for his hitting, speed, and fielding, he's a true five-tool player.

As he continues to climb, Dylan Crews is a name to watch. His dedication, skill, and passion for the game make him one of baseball's most exciting young talents. Keep an eye on this rising star.

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