The Philadelphia Phillies have several prospects who are on the precipice of making their MLB debut.
The Philadelphia Phillies are in win-now mode, but are also set on having a youth movement at the big league, too. As Philadelphia looks to win a World Series and determine pieces for the future, here are the three Phillies prospects who could make their MLB debut during the 2026 season.
Justin Crawford
Unless a surprise trade takes place between now and the start of the season, Justin Crawford is essentially a lock to make his MLB debut as soon as Opening Day. This isn’t speculation either; Dave Dombrowski mentioned Crawford’s name earlier this offseason when talking about Philadelphia’s outfield debut.
Even though Crawford is 21 years old, he appears more than ready to make the jump to the big leagues. In 122 games at Triple-A last season, the left-handed hitter logged a .334/.411/.452 slash line.
It’ll likely take some time for Crawford to find his groove at the MLB level, but the Phillies are counting on him to be a big piece in 2026.
Feb 25, 2025; Port Charlotte, Florida, USA; Philadelphia Phillies outfielder Justin Crawford (80) runs home to score against the Tampa Bay Rays during the fourth inning at Charlotte Sports Park. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement Neitzel-Imagn ImagesAndrew Painter
Like Crawford, Andrew Painter is another Phillies prospect who should make their big-league debut in 2026.
As it stands now, the Phillies need more rotation depth, even if Ranger Suarez does re-sign with the club. Painter is Philadelphia’s next best internal option to be the team’s fourth or fifth starter. Painter has logged a 3.44 ERA and a 1.195 WHIP throughout his minor league career.
There’s still a chance that the Phillies add another veteran starter this winter, which could delay Painter’s debut. Still, it feels inevitable that the 22-year-old will make his first MLB start at some point next season.
Gabriel Rincones Jr.
Even with Crawford likely in the mix, the Phillies' outfield has some serious question marks, making a potential call-up of Gabriel Rincones Jr. at some point in 2026 likely.
Rincones spent the entire 2025 season at Triple-A and proved he’s ready for the next level. The 24-year-old recorded a .799 OPS, including 22 doubles and 18 home runs in 506 plate appearances.
An Opening Day debut for Rincones feels a little premature, but if the outfield is underwhelming a month into the season, he could certainly be an option for Rob Thomson’s team sooner than later.