The Philadelphia Phillies have had an impressive start to the season, boasting a 7-2 record as they head into a mid-week series against the Atlanta Braves. Their success has been fueled by a lineup that’s averaging five runs per game, despite some pitchers getting off to a slower start.
Overall, it’s been a positive week for the Phillies, and the news gets even better with the impending return of one of their top prospects. Andrew Painter, a highly anticipated player, is set to make his season debut soon, and he could play a key role as the team moves through the summer.
Andrew Painter Set for Season Debut
As reported by NBC Sports Philadelphia’s Corey Seidman, Phillies manager Rob Thomson revealed that Andrew Painter will make his season debut on Friday when he starts a rehab assignment with Single-A Clearwater. Painter, who will throw a couple of innings in his first outing, is expected to pitch once a week for the next couple of months, with the goal of bringing him up to the majors by mid-to-late summer.
Thomson emphasized the importance of being cautious with Painter’s recovery, stating, “We’re gonna be conservative and make sure we take care of him. The biggest thing is he gets through it, throws strikes, and the stuff is there. That’s what I’m looking for.”
Painter, who turns 22 this week, underwent Tommy John surgery in July 2023 but has been carefully progressing through rehab. Ranked as the eighth-best prospect on MLB Pipeline’s preseason list, Painter’s potential has already garnered praise from former Phillies pitcher Cole Hamels.
Although he didn’t pitch in the minors last season, Painter made a notable appearance in the Arizona Fall League, posting a 2.30 ERA with 18 strikeouts and just four walks over 15.2 innings. His fastball, which reaches nearly triple digits, and an improved slider have raised excitement about his future.
“I’m very excited. I think he’s one of the best young pitchers in baseball,” said Phillies president of baseball operations, Dave Dombrowski, in February. “I think he’s going to be a tremendous major-league pitcher. He has the potential to be a No. 1, top-of-the-rotation type of starter. Maybe not right away, as we have some strong starters, but he has that kind of long-term potential.”
While finding room for Painter in the rotation may prove challenging, it will be a welcome problem to have. For now, he is taking the first steps toward his major league debut, and if all goes as planned, there’s a strong chance he’ll be part of the Phillies’ rotation by the end of the season.
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