Excitement is building in Philadelphia as top pitching prospect Andrew Painter inches closer to what many expect will be his long-awaited MLB debut this season. With spring training right around the corner at BayCare Ballpark, Phillies manager Rob Thomson delivered comments that should energize the fan base.
Painter, widely regarded as one of the organization’s brightest young arms, has generated significant buzz throughout the offseason. Now, it appears the 20-year-old right-hander is mentally prepared for the big stage.
Speaking with Devan Kaney of SportsRadio 94WIP, Thomson was asked about Painter’s mindset and composure on the mound. The veteran manager didn’t hesitate to praise the young pitcher’s demeanor, emphasizing his calm presence and resilience.
“I think he’s pretty calm,” Thomson said. “I was just talking to Garrett Stubbs Stubby was with him all year and [Painter] wasn’t affected by poor performance. He was able to bounce back. He’s got a short memory.”
Thomson pointed out that experiencing adversity in the minor leagues may have actually strengthened Painter. After dominating early in his professional career, the former first-round pick faced some struggles something the manager believes could prove invaluable as he transitions to Major League Baseball.
“If you’ve never had failure, you don’t know whether you’re going to bounce back,” Thomson explained. “Now he’s had failure, now he’s bouncing back. He’s going to have failure again like everybody does but he knows, ‘Okay, I’m good. This is baseball. I’m going to get back, I’m going to be fine.’”
That mental toughness, combined with his elite arsenal and poise beyond his years, has the Phillies confident Painter is ready for the next step. Thomson made it clear he believes the young starter is prepared for the challenge ahead.
As the Phillies gear up for a season with championship aspirations, Painter’s potential arrival could provide a major boost to the rotation and Phillies fans now have even more reason to be optimistic.
