Dylan Crews burst onto the major league scene with sky-high expectations. Fans of the Washington Nationals envisioned their top prospect becoming a cornerstone of the franchise for years to come. However, the transition from college stardom to Major League Baseball has presented Crews with unexpected challenges. In this article, we’ll examine his recent struggles, analyze what may be holding him back, and look toward what's next for both Crews and the Nationals.

The Highs and Lows of Dylan Crews’ MLB Debut

As the No. 2 pick in the 2023 MLB draft from LSU, Dylan Crews was viewed as a future star. Within a year, he had moved quickly through the minor leagues and made his debut with the Nationals. While his defensive skills have largely translated — showcasing strong range and a reliable glove — it’s at the plate where Crews has struggled to make a consistent impact.

Recent stats tell a sobering story. Crews’ batting average has slid well below league average, and his once-vaunted ability to drive fastballs has seemingly disappeared. Observers have noted a significant drop in his production during the early months of the 2025 season. These difficulties have led to increasing speculation about the best path forward for both the player and the team.

What’s Going Wrong at the Plate?

At the heart of Dylan Crews’ struggles is his performance against major league pitching. According to a detailed breakdown by Federal Baseball, Crews has notably faltered against both fastballs and off-speed offerings in 2025. In fact, he’s hitting just .045 against fastballs, a dramatic fall for someone previously regarded as an elite hitter against high velocity. A high chase rate and growing issues with breaking balls have further complicated matters.

Mechanical concerns have also surfaced. Analysts point to a lengthening of his swing, leading to more weak contact and fewer hard-hit balls. The Nationals’ coaching staff is working to address these issues, focusing on restoring Crews’ confidence and shortening his path to the ball. Despite offensive woes, his athleticism and top-tier bat speed still offer hope for a turnaround.

The Mental Hurdle: Is a Reset Needed?

As pressure mounts, some believe that a mental reset could benefit both the player and the team. An insightful piece from Sports Illustrated recommends that the best course might be to option Crews back to Triple-A, giving him a chance to rebuild his confidence without the daily pressures of the big leagues. Read the full analysis here.

This approach isn’t unprecedented. Many high-ranking prospects have faced early adversity before eventually finding their footing in the majors. The important thing is ensuring that the negative momentum doesn’t stall his long-term development. Sending him down now could provide the necessary space for technical and mental adjustments.

Why Dylan Crews Still Matters for the Nationals

Despite the recent slump, Crews’ role in Washington’s future remains crucial. Alongside emerging stars like CJ Abrams and James Wood, he represents the young core the Nationals hope will lead them back to contention. The front office’s commitment to youth only underscores the necessity of helping Crews reach his full potential.

His speed, defense, and flashes of power continue to offer value. According to Motociclismo’s overview, the organization is carefully weighing its options, knowing how central Crews is to the team’s long-term strategy.

Looking Forward: Pathways to Success

Dylan Crews is at a crossroads in his young career. The tools that made him a top pick are still present, but growth in approach and renewed confidence at the plate are needed. Whether the answer lies in a stint at Triple-A or continued MLB reps, one thing is clear: patience and the right support system will be vital.

Fans and analysts alike are rooting for Crews to recapture his collegiate form and translate it into major league success. For the Washington Nationals, unlocking his potential could be the key to their future.

Stay tuned for more updates on Dylan Crews and other rising MLB stars as the 2025 season unfolds.