The Philadelphia Phillies have one of the most anticipated Major League debuts on the horizon. With Andrew Painter continuing to get work in the Minor Leagues, the date for his MLB debut gradually gets closer. But, there has been no set date for his debut on the mound.
However, in a recent article from Paul Casella on MLB.com from his Phillies Beat newsletter, an updated timeline was given along with Casella's speculation on the specific series in which Painter will make his debut.
Casella writes, "The plan has always been for Painter to make his MLB debut in 'July-ish.' Thomson may have provided a bit more clarity recently on when exactly we might see Painter in the big leagues."
"While the situation remains fluid," Casella continued, "Thomson indicated that the club plans to use the all-Star break to let Painter rest and recharge."
The Phillies' plan for July has been known for some time. But Rob Thomson and the Phillies haven't given a specific time in July when Painter would get the call.
But, Casella believes that the All-Star break, which runs from July 14th to the 17th, is the sign that Painter's window to get called up has started. He sees the Phillies calling up Painter in one of the two series immediately following the All-Star break.
While nothing has been set in stone yet, the date after the All-Star break is a reasonable speculation given the Phillies' current situation. With Aaron Nola on the injured list and Taijuan Walker moving back to the bullpen, there is room for Painter.
But, Mick Abel is getting called back up to the big leagues for his second go as a Phillies starter. His performance could provide more clarity on when Painter receives the call to the big leagues.
If Abel performs well, the Phillies might slow-play Painter's MLB debut. But if Abel struggles, the Phillies could feel the pressure and call up Painter earlier than the anticipated July series after the All-Star break.
The Phillies play two series at home following the All-Star break, a three-game series against the Los Angeles Angels and a three-game series against the Boston Red Sox.
With Casella's report, Painter's debut will possibly fall during either of those two series. The Phillies face the New York Yankees in New York in the next series, so the Phillies might have Painter pitch later in the homestead to avoid a tough second matchup for the top Phillies prospect.
Casella's report provides some clarity on when Painter could make his highly anticipated MLB debut.
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