Why the Phillies are sticking with Andrew Painter in the rotation despite awful start to 2026

Article excerpt

Andrew Painter, once a top prospect, has struggled mightily for the Phillies in 2026, posting a 6.21 ERA through 11 starts. Yet the team has opted to keep him in the rotation rather than demote or trade the young pitcher. Philadelphia's decision reflects a belief that Painter's talent remains intact and that patience with a prospect's development, even when results disappoint, can pay dividends. The Phillies are banking on mechanical adjustments and time to help him recover the form that made him one of baseball's most promising arms.