The Philadelphia Phillies not only got a nice win against the Washington Nationals in Andrew Painter’s debut, but they also got to see the future of this organization.
In his debut, he looked like a real potential star, just like everyone was hoping for. Painter threw in 5.1 innings, allowing one earned run on four hits. He struck out eight and walked one.
Speaking with reporters after his first start, Painter also seems to have the right head on his shoulders. He even gave some love to Phillies fans for showing up and making it a special day.
“It was awesome,” Painter said, per Phillies Nation. “Crowd showed up tonight. Just kind of soaked all of it. I don't think I could have drawn it up much better.”
The problem with Painter has never been what he can do on the mound. His stuff is as good as anyone in baseball when he’s at his best. However, he’s had some injury and control problems. Instead of control problems being an issue, he delivered, and multiple Phillies veterans were very appreciative of his efforts.
“We needed a start like that,” catcher J.T. Realmuto said, “just because our offense has been starting so slow. So for him to come out and dominate and keep us in the game, throw up a bunch of zeros — it felt like they were quick innings — it was able to help us kind of catch a roll and let guys get their swings off.”
“He didn't seem fazed by anything out there,” Kyle Schwarber said. “That was pretty cool. I mean, even before the game, there's no pacing, no nothing. Just felt like he was mentally prepared for what he was about to do. That's impressive.”
On the health side of things, that will be a question Painter has to answer. If he can stay on the mound, the team and he should be more than fine.
“If we can keep him healthy, this guy's going to be really good for a long time,” manager Rob Thomson said. “He's going to have a really great career. He's one of those upper-echelon guys. He's got the combination of power and command. The future is bright for him.”