The 2022 MLB Draft will begin on July 17. Justin Crawford is an outfield prospect out of Bishop Gorman High School and made a commitment to LSU. However, the 18-year-old will test the MLB Draft. When drafted, the outfield prodigy is likely hear his name called in the first round. The son of former major-leaguer Carl Crawford, fans will be waiting to see if his kid can maintain “The Perfect Storm” legacy.
Make sure to check out all of our other MLB Draft Profiles.
Justin Crawford, Outfielder, Bishop Gorman
Height: 6’3″
Weight: 175 lbs.
DOB: 1/13/2004
Bats: Left
Throws: Right
2021 Stats: 18 G, .492/.536/.746, 1 HR, 12 RBI, 27 R, 6 BB, 6 K
2022 Stats: 42 G, .503/.562/.816, 5 HR, 52 RBI, 60 R, 19 BB, 7 K
Scouting Grades
Hit: 60
Power: 40
Run: 70
Field: 60
Arm: 55
Overall: 55
When you hear of amateur prospects, not many are as athletic and versatile as Crawford. As proven by his stats and his presence on both sides of the diamond, the Las Vegas native is quite the jock. In terms of accolades, the five-tool star has constructed a thorough and majestic file. Crawford has been in the headlines of the Las Vegas Sun as “Male Athlete of the Year”, as well as taking part in the Perfect Game All-American Classic. On top of all that, Crawford played a significant role in the Nolan Gorman organization which propelled them toward the Class 5A Southern Region Championship.
Strengths
It is f fair to say that Crawford checks off all the boxes for a five-tool prospect. First and foremost, his blazing speed on the field and any ball put in play. The outfielder uses his wheels as an upside to his game which will only improve as he matures. Clocking a 6.19 in the 60-yard-dash, his speed is pretty clear to the naked eye. In addition, the youngster has an above-average arm along with superb fielding instincts.
At the plate, Crawford is just as productive. Exceptional bat-to-ball skills implemented by his leveled swing from the left side. Moreover, the budding outfielder is known to be a high-average hitter with an upside of occasional power. Additionally, the speedster totaled just 13 combined strikeouts in his junior and senior years, which is a result of his tolerance in the batter’s box.
Weaknesses
It’s not an easy task to wear down every flaw in Crawford’s game. However, if anything stands out, it’s his amateur power. While he has distinguished bat-to-ball skills, power is not his strong suit. Although, he does have the knack to drive the ball at times, which could evolve into heavy power. Natural power is a rare component found in a prospect that Crawford will most definitely produce as his bat matures.
Pro Comparison: Brandon Nimmo
Crawford meets every strong point in Nimmo’s game. Each are 6’3″ with a similar build. They both have elite bat-to-ball skills along with a sprinkle of power. To round it all out, the speed and fielding abilities are fairly alike. Crawford flashes more speed potential, but Nimmo is a fair comparison at the dish.
Draft Projection: San Diego Padres, Round 1, Pick 16
The Padres have not seen much success in the outfield in recent years. With the upsurge of Crawford, San Diego could have their newest star in the first round. The draft is an unpredictable time, though, and Crawford could be gone before San Diego makes their pick.
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Main Image Credit: via Perfect Game USA
