Unexpected Philadelphia Phillies prospect stealing spring training spotlight with power surge
The Philadelphia Phillies will be relying on three top prospects in the near future, but an unexpected name is commanding attention this spring.
Andrew Painter, Philadelphia’s first-round pick in the 2021 MLB Draft, is expected to make his long-awaited debut this summer after recovering from Tommy John surgery that cost him the 2023 and 2024 seasons. The young right-hander was penciled in as the team’s No. 5 starter as a 19-year-old before being shut down with the elbow injury that derailed his promising start.
Justin Crawford, selected 17th overall in 2022, projects as the Phillies’ future center fielder beginning in 2026. The 21-year-old speedster has gone 2-for-8 with three runs scored in four spring appearances. While his power development remains a work in progress, Crawford’s elite baserunning has produced 99 stolen bags across three minor league seasons.
Aidan Miller, who surprisingly fell to Philadelphia at No. 27 in 2023, represents the organization’s most promising hitting prospect in years. The infielder impressed across three levels in 2024 with an .811 OPS, 11 home runs, and 60 RBI in 102 games. Currently slated for minor league development, Miller appears on track for Philadelphia’s 2026 Opening Day roster.
Yet it’s third-round selection Gabriel Rincones Jr. who’s creating the most immediate buzz in camp.
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Philadelphia Phillies prospect Gabriel Rincones Jr. making most of his chance at spring training
