Phillies Promote Top Two Pitching Prospects to Double-A

The Phillies spent two straight drafts on high school pitchers in 2020 and 2021.  In 2020 it was Mick Abel.  In 2021, it was Andrew Painter.  After strong performances at Class-A Jersey Shore, the Phillies have promoted the promising pair of pitchers.

Matt Gelb of the Athletic reported that the duo are headed to Double-A Reading.

While Abel is two years' Painter's senior, Painter has been nearly unhittable at Class-A.  In 17 starts combined between Class-A Clearwater and Class A+ Jersey Shore, Painter is 4-1 with a 1.19 earned run average. He has struck out 118 batters in 75 1/3 innings.  His WHIP is just 0.86.

The numbers are not as strong for Abel.  Abel has spent all of 2022 so far at Class-A+ Jersey Shore.  In 18 starts, Abel is 7-8 with a 4.01 earned run average. Abel has struck out 103 in 85 1/3 innings.

There is just over a month left in the 2022 season for the two to get a taste at Double-A.  It's probable that both would start at Double-A next season.  But this gives the two a month to get used to the league.

Gelb reports that there are innings limits on both pitchers, though a number was not disclosed.