Patience: Andrew Painter’s Phillies debut likely delayed until July 2025

If you’ve been counting down the days to Andrew Painter’s debut in a Phillies uniform, you’re going to need to hit the pause button for a bit longer.

According to Phillies President of Baseball Operations Dave Dombrowski, the team’s top pitching prospect is unlikely to hit the big leagues until July, as they take a deliberate approach to manage his workload after Tommy John surgery.

Andrew Painter being saved until “July-ish”

Phillies plan to save Andrew Painter's innings for "July-ish," Dave Dombrowski said. Painter will throw but not pitch games in spring training, then build in minors at some point.

As for the bullpen, Dombrowski indicated they are likely done adding.

— Matt Gelb (@MattGelb) December 23, 2024

The Phillies have a clear plan in place, and it doesn’t involve Painter pitching in spring training.

“He’ll throw, but we do not plan on pitching him in spring training,” Dombrowski said during a press call on Monday. “We’re going to push the innings back. Andrew understands the plan, and we think it’s a good one.”

The idea is to save Painter’s arm for the stretch run of the season, allowing him to build up gradually through extended work and minor league outings before making his major league debut.

While Dombrowski floated the possibility of a June debut, he quickly walked it back, emphasizing the team’s cautious approach.

The Phillies’ recent moves have given them the flexibility to slow-play Painter’s return. Over the weekend, they acquired lefty Jesús Luzardo via trade and followed that up with the signing of swingman Joe Ross. These additions give the team the depth needed to navigate the early months of the season without rushing Painter back into action.

Phillies Add Pitching Depth:

• Phillies land Jesus Luzardo from the Marlins in exchange for two prospects >>
• Phillies sign righty Joe Ross to one-year deal >>

It’s a smart strategy for a team with postseason ambitions and a long-term investment in one of baseball’s most exciting young arms.

Painter hasn’t pitched in the majors yet, but his potential has Phillies fans buzzing. Before undergoing surgery, the 20-year-old right-hander showcased elite stuff in 2022, dominating Single-A and Double-A hitters with a high-90s fastball, devastating breaking pitches, and the kind of command that’s rare for someone his age.

In his first post-surgery action, Painter looked sharp in the Arizona Fall League this October, throwing 15 2/3 innings over six games and reminding everyone why he’s been compared to the likes of Stephen Strasburg and other elite pitching prospects.

Andrew Painter in the Arizona Fall League:

• Andrew Painter throws 29 pitches, hits 100 mph during Arizona Fall League debut
• Andrew Painter shows off new pitch, dominates across 3 innings
• Andrew Painter keeps rolling in Arizona Fall League, extends scoreless streak
• Andrew Painter continues AFL dominance with impressive third appearance
• Andrew Painter dominates Arizona Fall League, wins Pitcher of the Year

Painter’s delayed debut is less about 2024 and more about the seasons to come. The Phillies know they have a potential ace on their hands, and they’re not going to risk his future for the sake of a few early-season starts.

By aiming for a July debut, they’re setting Painter up to contribute down the stretch while preserving his arm for the long haul. If all goes according to plan, he could be the Phillies’ secret weapon as they push for another postseason run.

It’s never easy to wait, especially for a prospect as hyped as Andrew Painter. But the Phillies are playing the smart game here. With a rotation already featuring Zack Wheeler, Aaron Nola, and new addition Luzardo, the team has the depth to compete now while ensuring Painter is ready to shine when it matters most.

Come July, when Painter finally steps onto the mound at Citizens Bank Park, Phillies fans will see why he’s worth the wait. Until then, patience is the name of the game.

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