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Phillies' Rob Thomson Praises Mick Abel Amid Latest Start

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Matthew Sullivan | Last updated Jun 5, 2025 1:15 PM ET

The Philadelphia Phillies placed Zack Wheeler on the paternity list and brought up rookie Mick Abel for his second start. After his first outing, there was a lot of promise for the former top 100 prospect. Following his impressive second start, Phillies manager Rob Thomson had high praise for the 23-year-old starter.

In an article from Matt Gelb of The Athletic, Rob Thomson shared his reaction to Abel following his second start. After Abel went 5.1 innings, striking out two, walking none, and allowing just one run, Thomson had a positive outlook on the rookie.

"It's kind of clicked for him, you know?" said Thomson. "He's been around now for a few years, and I think he's learned a lot. He's confident in his stuff. He understands now to attack hitters and trust his stuff, and that goes a long way."

For rookies, the play at the major league level is vastly different from that in the minor leagues. There have been numerous players who thrive in the minor leagues but struggle once they reach the major leagues. Abel, through two starts, has shown that the transition hasn't affected him.

If things have actually "clicked" for Abel, as Thomson says, then the Phillies have found another great starter for their rotation. Abel pitched in two outings in his MLB career. The first time he went six innings, striking out nine and walking none. His second outing, while a little worse as he allowed a run and didn't get as deep, was also impressive.

Overall, the early-career showings of Abel have been very promising. With Abel looking like a major league pitcher, the Phillies now have at least six quality starters on their roster. That doesn't even include Andrew Painter, who is steadily working his way to being MLB-ready.

Having a starter who shows such promise at a young age, through his first two starts, is a blessing for the Phillies.

There is a lot of optimism surrounding the 23-year-old rookie as he is lined up for his third career MLB start. Abel will face the Chicago Cubs, the top offense in baseball so far in 2025. While a challenge, Thomson's belief in Abel should instill confidence in the rookie heading into his third career MLB start.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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