Two-way prospect Crawford makes Single-A pitching debut

Saturday marked a big step forward for Giants two-way prospect Reggie Crawford.

After completing his rehab from Tommy John surgery, Crawford made his pitching debut with Single-A San Jose, striking out three over 1 2/3 innings in the Giants’ 7-1 win at Modesto.

Crawford, the Giants’ 2022 first-round Draft pick out of UConn, allowed only two hits and walked none while throwing 34 pitches. A left-handed pitcher and first baseman, Crawford also made his professional debut at designated hitter on Wednesday, going 0-for-3 with a strikeout.

The 22-year-old Crawford -- ranked by MLB Pipeline as the Giants' No. 9 prospect -- is perhaps the most intriguing prospect in the Giants’ farm system due to his rare two-way potential. He logged only eight innings on the mound for UConn before undergoing Tommy John surgery in October 2021, but he touched triple digits with his fastball and flashed a plus slider during pitching stints with Team USA.

Crawford, who is listed at 6-foot-4, 235 pounds, also showed impressive power with his left-handed swing, leading the Big East Conference with 13 homers in 2021.

Despite his limited track record, the Giants believe Crawford has all the tools to continue on his two-way path, especially now that he’s healthy.

“I’m really happy and I’m really thankful that they are willing to let me try it out,” Crawford said after being drafted last year. “It’s one of those things where whatever works, works and whatever doesn’t, doesn’t. You have to live in reality about it. Initially, I am so thankful that they’re allowing me to do both.”