As a sophomore, he compiled a 10–1 win–loss record with a 2.54 earned run average (ERA) and committed to continue his college career at the University of North Carolina.

[3] In his lone season with the North Carolina Tar Heels, Criswell went 6–2 with a 2.99 ERA and 86 strikeouts in 75+1⁄3 innings pitched.

[5] He began his professional career the following year with the Inland Empire 66ers of the Class A-Advanced California League.

[6] Criswell was assigned to the Double-A Rocket City Trash Pandas at the beginning of the 2021 minor league season.

He tossed 3.1 innings against the Toronto Blue Jays, striking out 4 and walking one while allowing one earned run on two hits.

Criswell was assigned to Durham to begin the 2023 season, and made 3 starts before he had his contract selected to the active roster on April 17, 2023.

[21][22] On April 24, Criswell earned his first win with the Red Sox after pitching five scoreless innings in the 8–0 victory over the Cleveland Guardians.

[23] On June 18, Criswell was optioned to Triple-A Worcester to make room for pitcher Chris Martin who was activated from the injured list.