Nationals Option Crews to Triple-A, Prioritize Performance

0:00From Washington Nationals coverage, this is your March 20th update. Washington Nationals general manager Paul Taboni made a bold call by optioning outfielder Dylan Cruz to triple A Rochester to open the season. The 24-year-old former second overall pick struggled badly this spring, going just three for 28 at the plate with plenty of whiffs and ground balls. Earlier this week, the team decided a fresh start away from the big league pressure could help Cruz rebuild his confidence, much like he had in. College at LSU. Last time in triple A, he posted a solid 265 average and 795 on-base plus lugging, but nothing dominant, and he got rushed. To the majors anyway, fans and analysts see this as a tough but smart move for his long-term growth, especially with sharp coaches like Travis Fittah waiting in Rochester. It sends a clear message from Taboni that performance Trump's draft status, no matter who you are. Now the Nationals' outfield mix includes Daelin Lyle, Jacob Young, James Wood, Joy Weimer and Christian Franklin with Weimer

1:05likely holding an edge. Due to no minor league options left, Cruz wanted to dominate down there to force his way back up soon.