Phillies Top Prospect Painter Takes Huge Step Towards Return

Philadelphia Phillies top prospect Andrew Painter has just made another step in his journey back to the mound after suffering an elbow injury in Spring Training. 

On Tuesday, Painter reportedly threw a 30-pitch bullpen session. That is an extra 10 pitches from his bullpen a week ago.

The next logical step for Painter could be a longer bullpen or facing live hitters. Both are an important step as he works his way towards a rehab assignment. 

If everything goes well, Painter could still make his MLB debut in 2023, which was the plan coming out of Spring Training before suffering his UCL sprain. 

Philadelphia has long been searching for a fifth starter, a role the team pegged Painter for. 

Easing him back into action to avoid injury was and is the best course of action for sustained health. Painter is seen as a top-of-the-rotation type pitcher. 

He may still get his chance to prove it down the stretch.