Scouting Report
Updated May 20, 2026
Andrew Painter, 23-year-old Phillies rookie pitcher, is struggling early in his MLB career with a 1-4 record and 6.89 ERA through 7 starts and 32⅔ innings. His fastball, averaging 96.1 mph, is his primary concern—opponents are batting .373 with a .576 slugging percentage against it, with only an 8.7% whiff rate (118th out of 124 pitchers). He gave up 8 runs in 3⅔ innings against the Athletics, including 3 home runs on two-strike fastballs. However, his FIP of 3.59 and improved home run rate (0.93 per 9 innings vs. 1.53 last year) suggest underlying performance is better than ERA indicates. Manager Don Mattingly and the organization remain patient, comparing his trajectory to Cole Hamels' early struggles. Painter is working with pitching coach Caleb Cotham to improve fastball command and movement.
Strengths
- + Fastball velocity elite at 96.1 mph
- + FIP of 3.59 significantly better than 6.89 ERA, indicating defensive issues and bad luck
- + Walk rate in 76th percentile at 6.8%
- + Improved home run rate to 0.93 per 9 innings from 1.53 last year
- + Holding left-handed hitters to .716 OPS vs .857 last year
- + Only 23 years old with high ceiling and prospect pedigree
- + Organization and manager showing patience and confidence
- + Comparison to Cole Hamels' early career struggles provides historical precedent for success
- + Working actively with pitching coach on adjustments
About
Andrew Painter is a sp for the Philadelphia Phillies.
Player Overview
SP
Philadelphia Phillies
Recent News
Sizzling Phillies rally late, edge Reds on Bryson Stott's two-run homer
May 18, 2026
Andrew Painter pitched two-run ball for six innings Monday in a no-decision against the Reds.
May 18, 2026
Phillies News: Justin Crawford, Andrew Painter, Francisco Alvarez
May 14, 2026
Phillies get just three hits, lose in Boston after Don Mattingly goes to bullpen early
May 13, 2026
Andrew Painter received a no-decision on Wednesday at Fenway Park, allowing one run on four hits while striking out four.
May 13, 2026