2009 TBSB Player Card: Carl Crawford
- Full Name:Carl Demonte Crawford
- Birthplace: Houston, TX
- Born: 08/05/1981
- Position: LF
- Bats/Throws: L/L
- Years Pro: 7
- How Acquired: 2nd round draft pick (52nd overall) in 1999
What we know: Crawford was a multi-sport star at Jefferson Davis High School in Houston where he played football, basketball and baseball. He was also a member of the swim team in high school. Crawford turned down a basketball scholarship to play point guard for UCLA and a football scholarship to play quarterback for Nebraska to play baseball for the Devil Rays.
Crawford is a two time All-Star (’04 and ‘07) who has led the American League in stolen bases four times and is one of the best defensive left fielders in the game today due to his tremendous speed. Crawford is also the Rays all time leader in At Bats, Plate Appearances, Runs, Hits, Strikeouts, Stolen Bases, Triples and Singles. He has won many awards over the years with the organization and is the longest tenured player with the team now. Crawford is also one of only eight players in baseball history to accumulate 1,000 hits and 250 stolen bases before the age of 27.
What we think: Carl has essentially been the face of the franchise since he’s been here and will continue to be while sharing the spotlight with others. Crawford had a down year in 2008 as he had his lowest output in SB’s and batting average since his rookie campaign. Although ‘08 was a down year he made it back from injuries to help the Rays through their dramatic playoff run and into their first World Series. Crawford is a talented player but I don’t think we’re going to see the power output we all have thought we would see out of Carl until he learns some plate discipline, but it’s hard to pick on a guy who produces what he has over the years for this team.
Picture courtesy of Dennis Adair on Flickr.
For stats click here.
January 7th, 2009 at 10:36 PM
Yeah Yeah, Crawford is kick ass and your right. But why dont we give a Player Card to the player that was more productive than any other on the team. You know him as “husband”. In my opinion he needs to be given some props, cause me and Dave agree on this. So the next player card of TBSB has to be Evan Longoria…..