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Rob Thomson Reveals When Phillies Will Call Up Andrew Painter for MLB Debut

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Jon Conahan | Last updated Jun 3, 2025 2:20 PM ET

Philadelphia Phillies prospect Andrew Painter is considered one of the top arms in the prospect ranks in baseball for a reason.

Painter, a tall right-hander who can run his fastball up to over 100 miles per hour, is coming off a tough arm injury. He only threw 15.2 innings during 2024, all of which came during the Arizona Fall League. That came after an entire season missed in 2023.

Some have wondered when the Phillies could call him up, as it makes sense to do so in the near future. Painter doesn't have anything left to prove in Triple-A, posting a 2.65 ERA and striking out 20 hitters in 17. innings. He's been dominant and somebody the Phillies should lean on.

However, according to Paul Casella of MLB.com, it doesn't sound like he'll be up in the immediate future, according to recent comments from higher-ups in the organization.

"Health," Phillies manager Rob Thomson said. "That's it."

When asked if Painter could make his debut before the All-Star break, Thomson added that he doesn’t think so.

"I don't think so."

Thomson should have some say on when Painter makes his debut, but it'll likely be up to the front office to make that final decision.

Dave Dombrowski has done an excellent job being smart with his players.

If Painter isn't ready to throw in the big leagues because he needs innings, and they don't want to rush his development, keeping him in the minors for another month or two makes sense.

However, he's been so dominant that at this point, why not give him a shot?

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

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