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Phillies' Crawford undergoes knee surgery

No. 2 overall prospect has loose body removed, should be set for spring
September 16, 2016

J.P. Crawford had a challenging season, and his offseason isn't off to a great start, either.

The Phillies' top prospect underwent surgery to remove a loose body from his left knee Wednesday, the team announced. He will rest for four weeks, and the Phillies expect him to have a normal offseason.

After slashing .288/.380/.414 for Class A Advanced Clearwater (.392/.489/.443) and Double-A Reading (.265/.354/.407) in 2015, the 21-year-old shortstop rejoined the Fightin Phils to begin this season. He posted similar numbers (.265/.398/.390) in his first 36 games and was promoted to Triple-A Lehigh Valley in May.

MLB.com's No. 2 overall prospect struggled in his first month in the International League, hitting .200/.295/.235 with 12 runs scored, six RBIs and three stolen bases through June 21. He recovered to finish at .244/.328/.318 in 87 games with the IronPigs, hitting four homers, driving in 30 runs and stealing seven bases.

Crawford has the glove to stick at shortstop and possesses an advanced approach at the plate to go with gap power from the left side. He drew 72 walks and struck out 80 times across two levels this year.

According to MLB.com, the Phillies plan to invite Crawford to Spring Training, where he's expected to compete for a big league job.

Chris Tripodi is an editor for MiLB.com. Follow him on Twitter @christripodi.