Three reasons why JP Crawford can be better this season
Three reasons why JP Crawford can be better this season
JP Crawford is a fan favorite, but some struggles in the past year have led to discussion over his performance. However, I think there is reason for optimism on an uptick in production for him.
JP Crawford is a fan favorite and a favorite in the Mariner clubhouse. He has become a steady presence on this team, growing into the leader of this team during his time in Seattle.
His leadership and consistency have made him extremely valuable as a core member of this team, and he has helped to turn around the baseball culture in Seattle.
However, struggles at the plate and in the field have disappointed some fans over the last year. I believe there are a few reasons for optimism for the Seattle shortstop in 2023, so let’s take a look.
Health
Crawford dealt with a myriad of injuries in 2022, and it was clear they were affecting him in the dog days of the season. A knee injury and a pec injury gave the 28-year-old troubles last season, which affected him both at the plate and in the field.
His range and ability to drive the ball were compromised in the dog days of the summer, in which he became a non-factor. Crawford carried a WRC+ of just 84 from June 6 on, slugging just .281 for the remainder of the season.
With better health in 2023, we should expect to see a better version of Crawford at the plate and in the field. Baseball Savant ranked Crawford in just the 2nd percentile of Outs Above Average, falling down from the 98th percentile in 2020 and the 54th in 2021.
While Crawford may not be much better at the plate than he was in 2022, his defense should be much better. His throwing and range contributed to his defensive struggles, which leads me to believe the knee and pectoral injuries were impacting him greatly. I expect to see a healthier version of the Mariner shortstop in 2023, adding to his value.
Role
Seattle has failed to supplement this roster with backups at the premium defensive positions over the last few seasons. For example, not having backups in center field and at shortstop last year led to Crawford and Rodríguez playing through more injuries than they should have.
The Mariners have filled out this roster much better than in previous seasons, and they hope to have Dylan Moore staying on the infield dirt much more in 2023. Playing Moore at shortstop more will allow Crawford more rest, and more days off against tough left-handed pitchers.
Crawford played 144 games at shortstop in 2022, he should be more around the 130 games played mark in 2023.
Offseason swing change?
Crawford has spent time at Driveline this offseason working with hitting coach Tanner Stokey and others. While his swing may not look noticeably different in 2023, a few tweaks could help him out a lot.
Crawford crashes forward as he moves forward to start his swing, creating a steep hand path towards the baseball. This creates a ton of ground balls, well above 40 percent on the season.
With just a few small tweaks Crawford could slightly improve his offensive numbers. The California native will not be facing as many left-handed pitchers, which should help him be more comfortable at the plate.
The left-handed swinger already walks at a rate well above league average and rarely strikes out. If his time at Driveline can help him drive the ball a little more consistently in addition to added health, Seattle could have the three WAR version of Crawford back.