The Philadelphia Phillies have received promising news regarding their top pitching prospect’s recovery from Tommy John surgery. Andrew Painter, the Phillies’ 2021 first-round pick, has faced batters for the first time since his surgery last July, according to Alex Coffey of The Philadelphia Inquirer.
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On Wednesday, he threw 15 pitches and reached a velocity of 99 mph with his fastball.
Painter, drafted 13th overall in 2021 out of high school, made a significant impact by quickly advancing through the Phillies’ minor league system to reach Double-A in 2022. He posted a 6-2 record with a 1.56 ERA, 155 strikeouts, and only 25 walks in 22 starts across three levels.
Currently the No. 2 prospect in the Phillies organization behind Aidan Miller, and No. 33 overall in baseball per MLB Pipeline, the 21-year-old has met high expectations when healthy.
Painter made only one preseason start in 2023 before experiencing elbow tenderness, which eventually led to Tommy John surgery later that year. This setback derailed his prospects of making the major league roster in 2023, but he is now on track for a potential debut in 2025.
While the Phillies are cautious not to rush Painter’s recovery, he is expected to continue his rehabilitation with hopes of returning to form by next season. The Phillies’ major league rotation is strong, with Zack Wheeler, Aaron Nola, and Cristopher Sánchez secured under multi-year contracts, and potential extension talks for Ranger Suárez. The No. 5 starter spot has been unsettled in 2024, so Painter could potentially step into that role as early as next season if his rehab progresses well.
