Philly.com · May 20, 2016
Patience has been J.P. Crawford's calling card
J.P. Crawford is usually right when it comes to the strike zone, Dusty Wathan said. If Crawford thinks a strike should have been called a ball, then the manager has a hard time disagreeing with the prospect.
Wathan, who was Crawford's manager at double-A Reading until the shortstop was promoted on Friday to triple A, said he's never coached a player with a better understanding of the strike zone.
Crawford - the Phillies' No. 1 prospect - has proven to be a strong defender, fast runner, and good hitter. But it is his approach at the plate that truly sets him apart. He walked 79 times in 119 games over two seasons at double A.