Dylan Crews, the Nationals' No. 2 overall pick in 2023, has been optioned to Triple-A Rochester after struggling at the plate this spring. The 24-year-old outfielder hit just .103 in spring training following a .208 average in his 2025 rookie season. The demotion comes as a surprise for a player considered one of baseball's top prospects.

Washington manager Blake Butera confirmed Crews handled the news professionally despite the unexpected move. "We absolutely believe in Dylan," Butera stated. The Nationals will likely open the season with James Wood, Jacob Young, Joey Wiemer and Daylen Lile as their top four outfielders. Crews' combined .211 batting average through his first two seasons played a role in the decision.

The organization views this as a temporary setback rather than a permanent change in their plans for their prized prospect. Crews still possesses elite potential that made him the second overall selection in the draft. The Nationals believe additional development time in Triple-A will help him find his stroke before a potential return later in the season.