Harrison Bader, an outfielder for the Philadelphia Phillies, has gained attention for his unique defensive style, which recently earned him the nickname “El Cangrejo,” or “the crab.” The nickname was given by Phillies first base coach Paco Figueroa after Bader joined the team in a trade with Minnesota in late July.
Bader is known for backpedaling to catch fly balls, a move that sets him apart from most outfielders. He explained, “I don’t know what the normal way is. I think how I do it is the normal way.” His approach to defense has been consistent since he was 12 years old.
Since joining the Phillies, Bader has contributed both offensively and defensively. In 50 games with the team, he has posted a .305 batting average, five home runs, 16 RBIs, and an .824 OPS. His right-handed bat has provided needed support to the lineup.
Left fielder Brandon Marsh commented on Bader’s fielding: “It’s like he’s stalking his prey out there.”
Bader attributes his focus on outfield play to early experiences in New York. “I couldn’t field a ground ball,” he said. “So, my dad taught me how to play the outfield. He told me to keep my belt buckle at the base I plan on throwing to.” Bader moved away from playing shortstop after being hit in the face twice during one game as a child.
He noted that playing with many Spanish players in New York helped him find his place in baseball: “In sports, you’ve got to be honest with yourself. You’ve got to know who are. You’ve got to know where you belong.”
After playing college baseball at Florida and being drafted by St. Louis in 2015, Bader made his MLB debut in 2017. Former Cardinals coaches Willie McGee and Ryan Ludwick encouraged him to develop his own style of play.
Ludwick said of Bader: “Philly is the perfect environment for him. He loves the limelight, man. He doesn’t scare at all… The way he went about his business, the self-confidence… I was like, ‘Whoa, this is different.’”
Ludwick also compared Bader’s energy and presence to former Phillies Shane Victorino and Aaron Rowand: “He’s kind of a cross between Victorino and Aaron Rowand.”
Bader’s personality stands out in the clubhouse as well; he made his first appearance wearing a sleeveless Alice Cooper t-shirt and often wears pink and purple gear.
Reflecting on what “normal” means for athletes, Bader said: “I think normal is an interesting word in sports. As long as you get the job done.”
