This spring turned up some pleasant surprises in the Giants’ camp. The Giants are counting on some of their young prospects to help get the team back to the World Series this year. After a brief stint last season, Brandon Crawford knew that he had to work on his hitting in order to make this year’s roster. The hard work paid off as he posted a .333 batting average this spring and solidified a spot in the Opening Day line-up.
How did you spend your off-season?
My off-season was busy. I was in Arizona for the Fall League for six weeks. A few days after that, I went to Hawaii and got married (on Nov. 26, 2011 to Jalynne Dantzscher). Then, we went on our honeymoon in Jamaica and then the holidays came. After that, I went to a rookie development camp in Virginia. Then, I went back to Arizona for the conditioning camp and then Fan Fest in San Francisco and back to Arizona for Spring Training.
Were you working on anything in particular during the Arizona Fall League?
I tweaked my swing at the end of last year, so I worked more on that during the fall. I worked on perfecting that and making it feel more comfortable.
What changes did you make to your swing?
I lay the bat on my shoulder now. I’m using my hands a little bit better. That was something that I struggled a little bit with last year.
You’re a great fielder. Were you more focused on hitting than fielding during the off-season?
I wanted to improve my overall game. I was working on things defensively as much as offensively. I worked on slowing things down, not rushing throws and not making dumb decisions. If I get to a ball and I don’t have a play, I’ll just hold onto it instead of rushing and throwing it away.
What was your reaction when you got called up last year?
I was excited when I got the call. I was surprised. I was in Bakersfield, playing for (Single-A) San Jose. It was about midnight when (the Giants’ vice president of baseball operations) Bobby Evans called me and told me I was coming up.
I hear that you’re a local boy. Where did you grow?
I was born in Mountain View and lived in Menlo Park until I was seven. Then, I moved to Pleasanton.
Were you a Giants fan growing up?
I was always a Giants fan. My dad had season tickets so I would go with him to the games.
Who was your favorite Giant?
I liked Royce Clayton. He was the shortstop. I wanted to be a shortstop, so I liked him. He was a defensive shortstop and that’s what I’ve become.
How did it feel during your first game with the Giants?
I was a little nervous going into the game, coming to a stadium that I had watched so many games in. Now being able to play on the field is a great feeling.
