Andrew Painter Eyes Phillies Rotation Spot, Declares 'No Limitations' Post-TJ

Andrew Painter, the Phillies' No. 2 prospect (No. 28 in MLB), is preparing for his second season following Tommy John surgery, declaring 'no limitations this year.' The 22-year-old right-hander, who struggled with command and arm angle last season (5-8, 5.26 ERA in 26 starts across Single-A and Triple-A), has worked to regain his previous mechanics. He recently threw live BP and is expected to make his Grapefruit League debut soon, with a spot in the Phillies' rotation anticipated in a few weeks. Painter is refining his pitches, including a sweeper and a changeup that caused blisters, and credits teammate Jesus Luzardo as a mentor through his TJ recovery.