The Philadelphia Phillies are off to a disappointing start to the year, with a 1-2 record in the opening weekend homestand against the Texas Rangers.

They will begin their second series of the year against the Washington Nationals, and begin by facing left-handed pitcher Foster Griffin. While a lefty is on the mound, Justin Crawford, the Phillies’ rookie outfielder, should still be in the lineup.

However, in the Phillies’ announced lineup, Crawford isn’t starting. But why? Destiny Lugardo of Phillies Nation revealed why Crawford isn’t in the lineup tonight vs. the Nationals, and it’s a reason that fans won’t like.

Phillies aren’t starting Justin Crawford vs. Nationals for one reason

“From Rob Thomson pregame yesterday: Brandon Marsh might start in CF today,” Lugardo shared. “He wants to give Justin Crawford a day off.”

The Phillies are entering their fourth game of the season, and Crawford is already getting a day off. For someone meant to be an everyday starter, who has actually looked good thus far, this is a strange decision.

Brandon Marsh is starting in center field in his place against the lefty Nationals pitcher, and it has nothing to do with matchups. Rob Thomson want’s to give the rookie center fielder an off-day.

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It’s a strange decision, as the Phillies get a day off on Thursday, and starting Crawford in the first six games of the year would hardly be a surprise. For someone meant to be a full-time starter, getting a rest day this early in the year is odd.

J.T. Realmuto is getting a day off as well, but it makes a lot of sense, as the Phillies don’t want him catching five days in a row and want to ensure he will be catching for rookie Andrew Painter for his debut.

Crawford, on the other hand, isn’t in the lineup tonight, not due to a matchup issue or an injury, but just as a day off, according to Thomson.

After hitting .333 through the first three games of the year, Crawford will sit for game four against the Nationals in Philadelphia, as the Phillies turn to Marsh, Otto Kemp, and Adolis Garcia in the outfield.

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