Andrew Painter Vies for Phillies Opening Day Rotation Spot

The Philadelphia Phillies hope Andrew Painter will secure a spot in their Opening Day rotation, especially with two potential openings if Zack Wheeler (shoulder) isn't ready. Painter, along with Taijuan Walker, is a favorite for these spots. In his first full season back from Tommy John surgery in 2025, he posted a 5.26 ERA, 1.49 WHIP, and 123:47 K:BB over 118 innings across 26 starts in Single-A and Triple-A. Despite the ERA, his stuff remained intact, and reaching nearly 120 innings was encouraging. Painter was added to the 40-man roster and has a good chance to make the big club with a strong spring.