Aidan Miller, Justin Crawford reassigned to minor-league camp
Top prospects Aidan Miller and Justin Crawford will make their way back to minor-league camp after a taste of big-league spring training with the Phillies.
The two recent first-round picks were reassigned along with three other non-roster invitees, the team announced prior to its Grapefruit League game against the Yankees on Tuesday. In addition to Miller and Crawford, infielder Carson Taylor, catcher Caleb Ricketts and left-hander Tristan Garnett were moved to minor-league camp.
Miller, 20, and Crawford, 21, were both invited to big-league camp after reaching Double-A last season. The shortstop Miller — who also appeared in one major-league spring game last year — didn’t find great results at the plate, going hitless in 12 plate appearances. Crawford was impressive in his opportunities. He handled the outfield well and went 3-for-10 with two walks and two stolen bases.
The two were reassigned with three weeks left in camp as they prepare for another season of development. Miller and Crawford were not competing for jobs on the Phillies roster and are still likely at least a year away. This season will be pivotal as they climb the ranks, and the experience this spring could be a boost for them.
Ricketts drew just one walk in two plate appearances this spring before he was reassigned. He serves as some catching depth in the organization. Taylor, a former catcher in the Dodgers system who came to the Phillies as a minor-league Rule 5 pick before last season and now plays first base, went 4-for-10 with a home run, two walks and a hit-by-pitch this spring. Garnett allowed four earned runs across an inning of work in two appearances. His spring showing wasn’t sharp, but he’s still a lefty to keep an eye on if the Phillies need bullpen help at some point.